url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-preckwinkle-cook-county-leaders-warn-aca-tax-credit-expiration,"Krishnamoorthi, Preckwinkle, Cook County Leaders Warn ACA Tax Credit Expiration Will Double Premiums, Strain Cook County Health and Stroger Hospital",2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Dr. Lauren Smith, Chief Medical Officer, Donnica Austin-Cathey, Chief Hospital Executive–Stroger, and other Cook County leaders today at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County to warn that the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits at midnight will sharply raise health care costs and place severe strain on Cook County Health and its flagship safety-net hospital.

“Letting these ACA tax credits expire isn’t an accident—it’s a choice,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “Republican leadership must allow a vote to extend these credits and stop blocking action to protect Medicaid from devastating cuts. Without action, premiums will nearly double, families will lose coverage overnight, and Cook County Health and Illinois taxpayers will be forced to absorb the fallout.”

“At Cook County Health, we will help patients navigate coverage changes, and provide the care they need, but we can not do it alone. Our efforts will not be able to offset the loss of federal support. Letting the Affordable Care Act subsidies expire will cost people in our community their insurance, their health, and in some cases, their lives. We urge policymakers to consider the consequences of allowing these subsidies to expire,” said Donnica Austin-Cathey, Chief Hospital Executive, Stroger Hospital, Cook County Health.

More than 550,000 Illinois residents are enrolled in the ACA marketplace in 2025, including over 360,000 Cook County residents, roughly 90 percent of whom rely on premium tax credits to afford coverage. If the credits expire, average monthly ACA premiums in Cook County are projected to rise by about 95 percent, pricing many families out of insurance overnight.

Health care leaders warned that coverage losses will hit safety-net hospitals first. In 2023, charity and discounted care at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital totaled nearly $140 million, almost six times more than the next closest hospital in Illinois. Increased uncompensated care is expected to place additional financial pressure on Cook County Health and local taxpayers.

The ACA coverage cliff comes as Cook County Health faces additional strain from President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which cut Medicaid by more than $1 trillion nationwide and imposed new work requirements. More than 3 million Illinois residents—one in four statewide—depend on Medicaid, which accounts for approximately 56 percent of Cook County Health’s patient revenue. The system estimates it could lose $88 million annually in Medicaid reimbursements as patients lose coverage.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-announces-winner-and-runner-up-of-the-2025-congressional-app-challenge,LaHood Announces Winner and Runner-up of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge,2025-12-31,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Representative Darin LaHood (IL-16) announced today Kavi Praanesh of Dunlap High School as the winner of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Illinois' 16th District. Kavi developed an application titled ""MeloCognia,"" using Python and C/C++ as her programming language. MeloCognia is an AI powered health assistant designed to help detect Parkinson's in its early stages. The runner-up, Agrini Neekhra of Dunlap High School, developed an app titled ""Febrile Neutropenia Intervention eXpert"" (FENIX), which works to combat the issue of delayed antibiotic treatment in pediatric febrile neutropenic patients.

“My office has been proud to host the Congressional App Challenge for the past 10 years to encourage students in the 16th Congressional District to pursue their passion in STEM fields,” said Rep. LaHood. “Each year, I have been amazed by the talent of our students and the creativity of the applications they put together to solve real-world problems and improve the lives of others. I want to congratulate this year's winner Kavi, and our runner-up Agrini, for their outstanding work in this competition and developing two incredible apps. Thank you to all the students who participated and made this year's Congressional App Challenge a success!”

""I was inspired to create MeloCognia after seeing my grandfather struggle with Parkinson’s, as he wasn’t diagnosed until the disease had already heavily impacted his daily life and treatment options were limited,"" said Kavi. ""That experience made me realize how hard early detection can be and how much the delay can cost patients. MeloCognia is an AI-powered health assistant that uses voice analysis and symptom tracking to provide fast, accessible early screening, giving users a quick insight in minutes that encourages them to seek medical evaluation sooner.""

""The Congressional App Challenge has given me the incredible opportunity to explore new fields. Before my app, I had never coded before and teaching myself was a great experience for me to build the skill and perseverance,"" said Agrini. ""FENIX is an app aiming to prioritize the small details in healthcare systems that may go unnoticed and improve diagnosis and treatment times. Oftentimes, chemo patients with compromised immune systems will need to receive a straightforward antibiotic treatment. However, delivery system variability and delays can prolong the treatment process, increasing mortality rates. FENIX helps to predict that delay and alert healthcare personnel to prioritize those patients. Being named runner-up for Congressman LaHood's Congressional App Challenge is a great honor and encourages me to keep developing my programming skills to create stronger, improved healthcare delivery initiatives. I am very grateful for this program and hope that all students see coding as an outlet to make their own mark on the world.""

Background:

The Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition hosted by the U.S. House of Representatives aimed at encouraging students to pursue careers in STEM fields. Since its inception in 2015, the Challenge has grown to become the largest student computer science competition in the United States.

The 2025 Congressional App Challenge set new records including:

Largest student participation with 13,830 students competing across the U.S.

4,650 original applications submitted - an increase of nearly 800 from 2024

Over 56% of this year's applications incorporated Artificial Intelligence

The winner will receive an invitation to demonstrate their application in Washington, D.C., have their application featured on the House of Representatives website, www.house.gov, and receive a copyright fee waiver provided through the Arts Act. A video link to the winning group’s application can be found here.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-delauro-warren-renew-fight-pass-part-time-worker-bill-rights-act,"Schakowsky, DeLauro, Warren Renew Fight to Pass Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act",2025-12-24,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), joined U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in reintroducing the Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act, legislation created to strengthen protections for part-time workers and allow them to better balance their work schedules with personal and family needs. The legislation will address one of the primary issues that hourly workers face - work schedules that do not provide as many hours as they need to support their families - and provide additional protections and benefits for part-time workers.

“Part-time workers across the country deserve better. More than one in five American workers are part-time and they face volatile work hours, unstable incomes, and low wages,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I reintroduced the Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act with my colleagues Representative DeLauro and Senator Warren to ensure equitable workplace treatment and conditions for part-time workers. This legislation requires employers to treat part-time and full-time employees impartially and gives part-time workers access to stable hours and medical leave. We must improve the quality of part-time work for millions of families across the country.”

""Part-time workers are crucial to the strength of our economy,"" said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. ""Yet, far too often, these workers are at a disadvantage when it comes to the stability, opportunity, and benefits that are afforded to full-time employees. The Part Time Workers Bill of Rights Act provides part-time workers with the peace of mind they deserve by ensuring they have access to additional hours and receive benefits like Family and Medical Leave and retirement plans, which we know are crucial to the well-being of our workers and their families. I am glad to partner with Congresswoman Schakowsky and Senator Warren on this issue.""

“Every worker deserves a chance at providing for themselves and their families, but greedy giant corporations are using loopholes to exploit part-time workers instead,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren. “I’m fighting hard to pass the Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights and ensure companies put their workers over profits.”

Corporations often attempt to avoid providing workers benefits and higher wages by giving part-time workers fewer hours than they want and spreading work among many part-time employees rather than hiring full-time employees.

This month, Starbucks agreed to pay $38.9 million to settle claims it violated New York law by failing to provide regular schedules to employees, cutting workers' scheduled hours without their consent, and giving shifts to new hires first instead of to existing employees.

The Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act would:

Require employers to offer available hours to current, available, qualified part-time employees before hiring new employees or subcontractors. The legislation requires employers with more than 15 workers to compensate existing employees if they hire new employees instead of assigning new work to available, qualified, existing employees. This provision is based on successful access to hours ordinances in cities across the country, including those in Chicago, Emeryville, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle.

Make more part-time employees eligible for family and medical leave. The legislation guarantees any employee who has worked for their employer for at least a year access to federal leave protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Allow part-time workers to participate in their employers’ pension plans. The legislation amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to give part-time workers who have worked at least 500 hours for two consecutive years access to retirement plans if they are offered by their employers to full-time workers.

The Part-Time Worker Bill of Rights Act is supported by: 9to5, A Better Balance, Action for Children, AFL-CIO, African American Health Alliance, All-Options, American Association of University Women, Americans for Democratic Action (ADA), Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, BreastfeedLA, Catch Fire Movement, CDF, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Center for Popular Democracy, CenterLink: The Community of LGBT Centers, Chicago Foundation for Women, Child Care Aware of America, Citizen Action of New York, Coalition for Social Justice, Coalition of Labor Union Women, Coalition on Human Needs, Connecticut Women's Education and Legal Fund (CWEALF), Economic Policy Institute, Equal Rights Advocates, Every Texan, Faith in Public Life, Family Values @ Work, Healthy Nourishment, Jobs With Justice, Justice for Migrant Women, Kentucky Equal Justice Center, Legal Aid at Work, Legal Momentum, The Women's Legal Defense and Education Fund, MANA - A National Latina Organization, MomsRising, National Black Worker Center, National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development, National Center for Law and Economic Justice, National Council of Jewish Women, National Employment Law Project, National Employment Lawyers Association, National Organization for Women, National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women's Law Center, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, Network of Jewish Human, Service Agencies, North Carolina Justice Center, Oxfam America, Poligon Education Fund, Public Justice Center, ROC United, Service Employees International Union, Shriver Center on Poverty Law, Start Early, Sugar Law Center for Economic & Social Justice, TakeAction Minnesota, The National Domestic Violence Hotline, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, United for Respect, We All Rise, Women and Girls Foundation of Southwest PA, Women Employed, Women's Fund of Rhode Island, Women's Law Project, Women's Media Center, Workplace Fairness, YWCA of the University of Illinois, YWCA USA, ZERO TO THREE.

The legislators also introduced the Schedules That Work Act, complementary legislation to help ensure that low-wage employees have more certainty about their work schedules and income. The Schedules That Work Act protects workers who ask for schedule changes from retaliation and requires employers to consider their requests. For retail, food service, and cleaning occupations, it requires employers to provide schedules two weeks in advance. The legislation also provides compensation to these employees when their schedules change abruptly or they are assigned to particularly difficult shifts, including split shifts and call-in shifts.

A recent Berkely study found that unpredictable schedules - which often mean lack of access to enough working hours - are associated with financial insecurity, housing insecurity, high stress, poor health outcomes, and, for parents, less time spent with children, which, in turn, leads to worse outcomes for children. One study found that 65% of respondents with part-time jobs had dealt with ""at least one serious material hardship"" in the past year. Workers facing these challenges are disproportionately women and workers of color as exposure to schedule instability is 16% higher among workers of color compared to white workers.

Laws to help workers access more work hours have already been passed as part of fair workweek laws across the country, including in Chicago, Emeryville, California; New York City; Philadelphia; San Francisco; San Jose; Seattle; and SeaTac, Washington.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-demands-answers-after-hhs-cuts-pediatric-health,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Demands Answers After HHS Cuts Pediatric Health Grants Following Criticism of RFK Jr. by the American Academy of Pediatrics,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) sent a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expressing grave concern over the Department’s decision to terminate more than $18 million in federal grants awarded to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), warning that the move threatens critical child health initiatives nationwide and raises serious questions about political retaliation and the integrity of federal public health funding. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi emphasized that the AAP, headquartered in Itasca, Illinois, represents more than 67,000 pediatricians nationwide and has served for nearly a century as a cornerstone of evidence-based pediatric care and public health:

The terminated grants supported programs aimed at reducing sudden infant death, improving adolescent health outcomes, preventing fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, and ensuring early identification of autism. The Department has stated that these initiatives “no longer align with the Department’s mission or priorities,” a justification Congressman Krishnamoorthi sharply questioned.

“I find it profoundly disturbing that preventing infant deaths, protecting adolescent health, and identifying developmental disabilities early are now considered misaligned with the mission of the federal agency charged with safeguarding public health,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote in his letter. “The funding cancellations came shortly after the AAP challenged Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s vaccine policies in federal court, raising serious concerns that this action may represent retaliation against a respected medical organization for exercising its legal rights and defending science-based public health policy.”

The letter raises particular concern about the timing of the cancellations, noting that the funding terminations occurred shortly after the AAP challenged Secretary Kennedy’s vaccine policies in federal court. Emphasizing the responsibilities of HHS and its subagencies, including the CDC and HRSA, the letter underscores that public health funding decisions must be guided by science rather than ideology.

To better understand how the Department is making grant funding decisions, Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested that HHS provide responses to the following questions by January 20, 2026:

All documents and communications related to the decision to cancel $18.6 million in grants to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

An outline of projects and initiatives that will be funded to replace work that AAP was performing in relation to sudden infant deaths, adolescent health, fetal alcohol syndrome prevention, and early autism detection.

HHS, CDC, and HRSA’s banned words and ideologies when considering projects for federal funding.

A list of all HHS, CDC, and HRSA projects that have been cancelled because they “no longer align with the Department’s mission or priorities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-sounds-alarm-over-doj-diverting-fbi,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Sounds Alarm Over DOJ Diverting FBI Counterterrorism and Counterintelligence Resources to Mass Immigration Raids,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel raising serious concerns that the Department of Justice has diverted FBI counterterrorism and counterintelligence personnel away from their core national security missions and reassigned them to support mass immigration enforcement operations, putting the United States at risk. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi warned that senior DOJ officials have redirected personnel and assets from the FBI’s core mission despite the Bureau’s own assessment that terrorists and nation-state adversaries pose the most immediate threats to the homeland:

“Over the last year, senior officials have reassigned personnel and assets from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) core national security mission to immigration enforcement, leaving counterterrorism and counterintelligence work compromised and putting our national security at risk.”

The letter cites reporting that early in 2025, DOJ leadership directed FBI Joint Terrorism Task Forces to assist with immigration initiatives, requiring agents responsible for terrorism investigations, espionage detection, and cyber threat monitoring to prioritize immigration enforcement over national security work:

“Agents responsible for espionage detection cyber threat monitoring, and terrorism investigation, therefore, were required to prioritize immigration enforcement, giving less attention to crucial national security threats.”

Despite a rise in alleged terrorist incidents across the United States, the letter notes that a significant share of the Bureau remains diverted:

“Nearly a quarter of the FBI’s roughly 13,000 agents nationwide, and up to 40 percent in the largest field offices, remain assigned to immigration enforcement duties.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi further highlighted reporting that analysts tracking terrorist financing, money laundering, and the illicit trade in looted antiquities, as well as investigations into the Iranian oil black market used to finance terrorism, have been delayed by months:

“Internal sources further indicate that these core national security investigations, including into the black market for Iranian oil sold to finance terrorism, have been delayed by months.”

According to additional reporting cited in the letter, the diversion of counterterrorism and counterintelligence personnel has halted critical investigations:

“The shift of resources from counterterrorism and counterintelligence teams, including many FBI personnel working years-long complex investigations involving classified techniques and sources, have caused several critical investigations to stop.”

The letter also raises alarm that counterintelligence specialists with deep expertise on China, Russia, and Iran have been reassigned to immigration cases, limiting enforcement of the Foreign Agents Registration Act and allowing foreign intelligence operatives greater freedom to operate inside the United States:

“These shifts have limited investigations into violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act and have allowed foreign intelligence operatives greater room to maneuver within the United States.”

Emphasizing the FBI’s statutory mandate, the letter warns:

“Its counterintelligence and counterterrorism components exist to detect and disrupt the activities of hostile foreign actors, not to conduct civil immigration enforcement or unrelated administrative duties.”

In light of these concerns, Congressman Krishnamoorthi asked the FBI to promptly provide detailed answers to the following questions:

To what extent have FBI personnel assigned to counterintelligence, counterterrorism, or related national security missions been redirected to assist with immigration enforcement or other non–national security duties?

How have these reassignments affected FBI’s ability to investigate and disrupt espionage, terrorism, cyber intrusions, and other national security threats?

Have any ongoing national security or counterterrorism investigations—such as the probe into the Iranian oil black market or cases involving foreign influence operations—been delayed, suspended, or deprioritized because of these diversions?

Were formal operational risk assessments or impact analyses conducted prior to redirecting these agents, and if so, what did they conclude?

What steps, if any, has the Bureau taken to return these personnel to their original counterintelligence and counterterrorism assignments and to restore full operational readiness in these mission areas?

What mechanisms or internal controls will be implemented to prevent future diversions of national security resources for purposes unrelated to the FBI’s statutory counterintelligence and counterterrorism missions?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-urges-education-department-reverse-cuts-illinois,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Urges Education Department to Reverse Cuts to Illinois Community Schools,2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today called on the Department of Education to reverse its decision to cancel Full-Service Community Schools (FSCS) grants across Illinois, warning that the move would eliminate critical student supports and undermine years of federal investment. In a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Congressman Krishnamoorthi raised concerns about the cancellation of $18.5 million in annual funding and more than $55 million over the remaining grant period for FSCS programs statewide.

“In Illinois, FSCS grants support 16 school districts and 32 schools across Illinois, serving approximately 19,000 students annually,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote in the letter. “These grant programs serve rural, suburban, and urban students alike, partnering with schools and families to ensure programs are responsive to the unique needs of each community. They provide essential family engagement, nutrition programs, academic enrichment, mental health supports, and workforce-aligned partnerships. FSCS grants are lifelines for the children and families who rely on them, ensuring that our kids remain safe and supported as they learn.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi warned that the tens of millions of dollars in funding cuts would have immediate and severe consequences. When students return from winter break this January, they will face dramatically reduced support, undoing years of federal investment in future generations. The congressman accused the Trump administration of politicizing children’s programs and education.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-responds-supreme-court-ruling-blocking-trumps-chicago-national,"Krishnamoorthi Responds to Supreme Court Ruling Blocking Trump’s Chicago National Guard Deployment, Urges Passage of His Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) issued the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States declined to allow President Trump to proceed with a National Guard deployment into Chicago:

“Today’s Supreme Court decision blocking President Trump’s attempt to deploy the National Guard into the Chicago area is an important step forward in stopping a clear abuse of his office—but it applies only to this case. I introduced the Stop Trump’s Abuse of Power Act to clarify and limit a president’s authority to deploy the military or National Guard to any American city and prevent the use of servicemembers as political props. Congress must act to ensure President Trump cannot misuse our servicemembers this way again.

Illinois has stood united in opposing this illegal and political deployment since day one, and I applaud Governor Pritzker’s leadership as we all fight back together. We will continue to stand united no matter what this administration throws our way.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-details-systemic-issues-during-inspections-ice-detention-and,"Underwood Details Systemic Issues During Inspections of ICE Detention and Processing Facilities in Chicago, Lombard, and Bunker Hill, Indiana",2025-12-23,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BUNKER HILL, IN. — Today, Representative Lauren Underwood of the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee conducted an oversight visit with staff to the Miami Correctional Facility in Bunker Hill, Indiana, one of the primary facilities used to hold Illinoisians during Operation Midway Blitz. Yesterday, Underwood and staff conducted oversight visits to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago Field Office, located in downtown Chicago, and the ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Chicago Field Office, located in Lombard, Illinois. These visits build on her recent inspection of the Broadview Processing Center following widespread community outrage at Operation Midway Blitz’s constitutional violations and ongoing questions about federal immigration enforcement practices across Illinois and the nation.

Underwood received briefings from leadership of all three facilities and toured the premises, including intake rooms, holding spaces, storage areas, and officer work areas. The visits occurred as dozens of constituents across her community continue to report being detained, confronted, or questioned by federal immigration enforcement personnel. For months, the Illinois delegation received no timely responses from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to basic inquiries regarding the safety or location of constituents impacted by the operation.

“For months, the Trump Administration has trampled over our Constitution and failed to answer even the most basic questions about how they are conducting immigration enforcement,” said Underwood. “My visits this week exposed serious breakdowns in how people are tracked, cared for, and treated across ICE facilities. People deserve to know the truth about what is happening in our communities, how federal resources are being used in their name, and how these so-called immigration enforcement operations are being run.”

Miami Correctional Facility (Bunker Hill, IN)

The Miami Correctional Facility is a state prison for adult male inmates located on the site of the former Grissom Joint Air Reserve Base. In August 2025, DHS announced that it had contracted with the state of Indiana to house up to 1,000 detained migrants at this facility using funding from the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” under the 287(g) program, which authorizes ICE to delegate certain immigration enforcement functions to state and local law enforcement entities. Because Illinois state law prohibits ICE detention facilities, ICE houses Illinoisans at out-of-state facilities including Miami.

Underwood inspected the portions of the facility used for ICE detention, where 550 people are currently detained. During her visit, Underwood spoke with seven detainees. Five of the seven reported problems with ICE’s Online Detainee Locator System that delayed their families’ ability to find them, despite staff’s claim that detainees should show up in the system within a couple of hours. Two reported experiencing delays in accessing medical care even after requesting it. For example, ICE staff claimed that medicine refills are available upon request, while detainees reported that refills can take up to two months. Another detainee reported that ICE told him they had lost all of his belongings, including money and photographs of deceased family. Detainees also reported difficulty accessing basic hygiene needs such as nail clippers.

Underwood was told that breakfast is served from 4:00 – 6:00 AM, but some detainees have reported sleep disruptions from being served breakfast as early as 3:30 AM. Underwood was told lunch is from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM and dinner is served after 3:00 PM. Prison staff claimed that detainees get one hour of outside recreation per day, five days a week. Staff informed Underwood that detainees can play soccer or basketball outside and basketball, foosball, or pool inside during adverse weather events. The only shoes provided by the prison are plastic clogs, which are worn indoors, outdoors (even in winter), and in showers. Detainees reported that these shoes often wore out quickly and failed to keep their feet dry. Underwood was told that detainees have the ability to turn the lights in their cells on and off, but they did not function properly when Underwood tested them.

There are weekly Catholic, general Christian, and Muslim services in English and one weekly Catholic Mass in Spanish. ICE does not permit detainees to lead their own services, so detainees seeking other religious services are dependent on outside volunteers. There is currently a need for Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist volunteers to lead services. Religious literature may be donated to the facility, and staff report high demand for Spanish-language Bibles and other Spanish-language materials.

Prison staff informed Underwood that they contract with Centurion Health for medical care for detainees, which has subcontractors for different types of care. The infirmary is the only part of the Miami complex shared between ICE and the Indiana Department of Corrections. The facility has two dentists, one psychiatrist, one registered nurse, one certified nursing assistant, and sometimes one licensed practical nurse. There are four dental chairs and four infirmary rooms with six hospital beds in each one, plus two isolation rooms for patients with communicable diseases. Underwood was told that detainees should receive a medical, dental, and mental health assessment within their first 14 days. In medical emergencies, detainees are transported to Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru, Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Community Howard Regional Health in Kokomo for cardiac care, or hospitals in Indianapolis if needed.

Attorney consultations are mostly conducted via video call, with some in-person visits. There is a private area available for detainees to meet with attorneys, but attorneys must make an appointment to reserve the room for a virtual meeting. This room is also used for detainees to meet with consulate representatives from their home countries, and for credible fear interviews conducted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officials. There is also a room where detainees are supposed to be able to meet with a counselor or caseworker, but one was not present during Underwood’s visit. There is also a courtroom onsite. Judges are responsible for arranging translation if needed for onsite court proceedings. Deportation flights are conducted three times a week out of Gary, IN, Indianapolis, IN, or Kansas City, MO.

Detainees can file a paper form to request access to a “law library” that does not contain a book collection. Prison staff shared with Underwood that detainees can access LexisNexis on a tablet issued to all detainees; Underwood was told that ICE determines what can be accessed on the tablet. The “law library” has a printer and 11 computers without internet access, which can be used to write letters and fill out forms. Staff claimed that stamps are available for purchase at the commissary, which detainees can use to send mail, and that detainees can ask staff for assistance locating and printing specific forms. However, detainees reported that they were unable to purchase stamps or envelopes, or to print or email legal materials needed to support their cases. Staff onsite were not familiar with the privacy waiver required for Congressional casework, but Underwood secured their commitment to make this form available to detainees in the “law library.”

The telephone vendor for this facility is Talton Communications. Detainees are assigned a personal identification number (PIN), which is required to call their families or attorneys, and it takes one day to get the PIN. There is a fee for calls which can be paid by cash, card, or money order; funds must be uploaded to a prepaid card through Numi Financial. Detainees can request phone numbers, such as for consulates, and can make international calls. Families who wish to call the facility should dial 866-348-6231.

ERO (Enforcement and Removal) Chicago Field Office (Chicago, IL)

The ERO Chicago Field Office serves as the ICE ERO hub for Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Missouri, Kentucky, and Kansas, overseeing immigration enforcement activities across this region. It is intended as an administrative and operational field office rather than a detention center, but there have been reports of overcrowding as it has been used to hold larger numbers of people during Operation Midway Blitz. There are 50-60 ICE ERO officers at this office currently, in addition to support staff. Underwood was told an additional 60 will be starting next week. Security personnel employed by Allied Universal are also contracted to watch camera footage of holding cells onsite and to patrol the entrance of the building (which houses other government agencies as well). Underwood was told that the office will soon expand into the 5th floor of the building to add more cubicles. This increase is part of ICE ERO’s goal of hiring 805 new officers across the six-state region. Underwood was told that new hires at ICE ERO have a failure rate of up to 30% due to academic issues, physical fitness, failed background checks, and injuries, and that ICE Academy abbreviated its training program from 60 days to 40 days earlier this year.

Underwood inspected holding areas and found inconsistencies in the furnishings and informational resources available in different units. For example, a female unit did not contain an informational poster on how to file a report under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), while a male unit did. Underwood was told by ICE ERO staff that families with children may be held at this location. Staff reported that detainees are not held overnight at this facility. Detainees are typically transferred from this facility to Broadview in the afternoon, around 3-4 PM.

ICE ERO staff informed Underwood that in medical emergencies, staff call 911. First responders choose where to transport detainees, often Rush University Medical Center. ICE ERO staff allow prescription medication to be brought to detainees if it is in a prescription bottle labeled with the detainee’s name.

ICE ERO staff claimed that detainees are supposed to appear in the agency’s Online Detainee Locator System as soon as they are booked. Underwood examined paperwork instructing detainees to provide the full names of family members accompanying them for appointments; staff alleged that this information is recorded but not used for any purpose. This raised concerns about potential tracking and targeting of mixed status families, contrary to the DHS’s purported focus on targeting violent criminals.

Detainee phone calls are monitored, including calls with attorneys and family. The only stated exceptions are calls to hotlines (such as a sexual assault hotline or pro bono attorney access). Phone calls cost money which can be paid by debit or collect. The telephone vendor for this facility is Talton Communication. Translation services are provided over the phone by Lionbridge.

ICE ERO staff reported that the Chicago regional immigration court docket currently has 260,000 cases pending, with 11,000-12,000 people enrolled in Alternatives to Detention (ATD).

ICE HSI Chicago Field Office (Lombard, IL)

The HSI Chicago Field Office oversees ICE HSI operations across Illinois, Indiana, and the southern half of Wisconsin. ICE HSI employs over 400 staff across this tristate area, including 100 new hires this year. ICE HSI officers previously focused on investigating crimes of exploitation, such as child exploitation, sex trafficking, and human trafficking, but under the Trump Administration, their time has been diverted from that mission to an immigration enforcement mission. Funding from the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” has been used to rehire 40 retired ICE HSI agents for the sole purpose of immigration enforcement. Prior to Operation Midway Blitz, about 10% of HSI agents joined ERO officers in the field; during Operation Midway Blitz that proportion has risen to 30%, with about 25 HSI agents in the field each day. HSI investigates cases involving alleged assaults on ERO officers; cases involving alleged assaults on Border Patrol officers are split between HSI and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Underwood inspected holding cells and was informed by ICE HSI staff that families with children may be held at this location. ICE HSI staff informed Underwood that detainees are not held overnight at this location; instead, they are either released, taken to appear before a federal judge at the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, or transferred to the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in Chicago or the Cook County Department of Corrections. ICE HSI staff informed Underwood that there is no onsite medical care; in medical emergencies, staff call 911.

ICE HSI staff reported that people detained at this facility do not appear in ICE’s Online Detainee Locator System. This facility does not have phones for detainees to use. Detainees may make calls from their personal cell phones, which are monitored by an HSI agent. Detainees are only given the opportunity to make a phone call upon request.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/los-representantes-garcia-davis-ramirez-y-jackson-inspeccionan-el-centro-de-procesamiento-de-ice-en-broadview,"Los Representantes García, Davis, Ramírez y Jackson Inspeccionan el Centro de Procesamiento de ICE en Broadview",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO — Hoy, los Congresistas federales Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Delia C. Ramírez (IL-03) y Jonathan Jackson (IL-01) regresaron al Centro de Procesamiento de ICE en Broadview, Illinois, para una visita de supervisión. Un tribunal federal confirmó el 17 de diciembre que la Administración Trump no puede impedir que los miembros del Congreso realicen supervisen los centros de detención de inmigrantes. En la conferencia de prensa, los representantes estuvieron acompañados por Erendira Rendon, vicepresidenta de Justicia para Inmigrantes de The Resurrection Project (TRP), y Artemio Arreola, director político de la Coalición de Illinois para los Derechos de Inmigrantes y Refugiados (ICIRR). El video de la conferencia de prensa se puede ver aquí.

La inspección realizada por los miembros del Congreso confirmó lo que habían escuchado de los defensores de los derechos de inmigrantes sobre el centro: cuatro celdas de detención, servicios sanitarios insuficientes, falta de privacidad, ausencia de servicios médicos y de salud mental, un lugar que no fue diseñado para albergar personas más de unas horas.

“Estamos respondiendo a las necesidades de nuestros electores, quienes han llamado a nuestras oficinas, y no saben qué le sucede a sus familiares cuando están en este centro de detención”, dijo el Congresista Davis, quien representa el distrito donde se encuentra el centro de procesamiento de ICE en Broadview. “El tribunal dijo que somos los representantes del pueblo y por eso estamos aquí. Nuestra función es servir y proteger a la gente de nuestro distrito, y eso es lo que he hecho toda mi vida y no voy a dejar de hacerlo ahora”.

“Un tribunal federal reafirmó lo que nunca debió haberse cuestionado: que el Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas de Estados Unidos (ICE) y el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional no pueden impedir que los miembros del Congreso inspeccionen las instalaciones financiadas por el pueblo estadounidense. Lo que vimos hoy confirma por qué la supervisión es urgente. Es un sistema diseñado para agotar a las personas en lugar de procesarlas humanamente”, dijo el Congresista García. “Lo que presenciamos refleja un sistema que trata a los seres humanos como mercancía. Este ya es el período más mortífero registrado para las personas bajo custodia de ICE. Bloquear la supervisión no protege la seguridad pública. La detención a esta escala es inherentemente deshumanizante.”

“La visita de hoy se trata de personas, no de política. Dentro de esta instalación hay madres y padres, trabajadores y familiares que están separados de sus seres queridos, muchos por asuntos de inmigración civil, no por delitos. La supervisión es importante porque las condiciones dentro de estas paredes afectan vidas humanas reales: si alguien recibe atención médica cuando está enfermo, si puede hablar con su abogado, si es tratado con dignidad”, dijo el Congresista Jackson. “Poder entrar significa que podemos ver por nosotros mismos, escuchar directamente y asegurarnos de que nuestro gobierno cumpla con su responsabilidad de tratar a cada persona bajo su custodia con decencia y respeto básicos”.

“Bajo el liderazgo de Kristi Noem, ICE ha gastado miles de millones de dólares en su campaña de terror ilegal, irresponsable e inconstitucional. Existe evidencia irrefutable de que ICE ha mantenido a nuestros vecinos, incluidos niños y mujeres embarazadas, en condiciones inhumanas en las instalaciones de ICE, donde han estado sin acceso a sus medicamentos, asesoría legal o necesidades básicas. La supervisión de las instalaciones del DHS y de ICE es un derecho y un deber constitucional de todos los miembros del Congreso. Y un tribunal federal ha otorgado a los miembros del Congreso una orden judicial para hacer precisamente eso”, dijo la Congresista Ramírez, miembro del Comité de Seguridad Nacional. “La exitosa visita de supervisión de hoy al Centro de Procesamiento de ICE en Broadview es una victoria para nuestras comunidades y un primer paso necesario para responsabilizar a la Administración por su ilegalidad y crueldad. No permitiremos que el DHS viole nuestros derechos, socave el debido proceso y destruya nuestras comunidades. Continuaremos luchando en el Congreso, en los tribunales y en las calles. Por mis electores, nuestros vecinos y nuestro país, seguiré responsabilizando a Kristi Noem por sus abusos de poder y me aseguraré de que se investiguen sus delitos que ameritan un juicio político”.

“La decisión del DHS de finalmente permitir la supervisión del Congreso es un paso positivo, pero no contribuye mucho a esclarecer la situación que atraviesan actualmente los miembros de nuestra comunidad detenidos”, declaró Erendira Rendón, vicepresidenta de Justicia para Inmigrantes de The Resurrection Project. “Las personas siguen siendo detenidas en la calle y trasladadas por todo el país, separadas de sus familias y privadas del asesoramiento legal al que tienen derecho. The Resurrection Project se compromete a seguir luchando por los derechos de todos los inmigrantes hasta que todas las personas que han sido arrebatadas de nuestras comunidades sean liberadas y se reúnan con sus seres queridos”.

“Continuaremos trabajando con estos representantes y sus colegas para reunir a las familias. Las comunidades inmigrantes exigen soluciones reales y rendición de cuentas. ICIRR y nuestros colaboradores seguiremos exigiendo responsabilidad y transparencia”, afirmó Artemio Arreola, director político de ICIRR. “Seguiremos exigiendo el fin de la violencia de ICE, independientemente de quién esté en el poder. Exigimos el fin de las detenciones, el fin de las redadas y el fin de las deportaciones”.

# # #

En junio, los congresistas realizaron una visita sin previo aviso al Centro de Procesamiento de Broadview tras recibir informes de que se estaba utilizando para la detención ilegal de inmigrantes, en contravención de las ordenanzas municipales y estatales. Se les negó la entrada, incluso después de identificarse con sus credenciales oficiales del Congreso.

En septiembre, enviaron una carta a la secretaria del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS), Kristi Noem, y al director interino del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE), Todd Lyons, exigiendo respuestas sobre las condiciones, la capacidad y los servicios básicos para los inmigrantes detenidos en el Centro de Procesamiento de ICE en Broadview, Illinois. Nunca recibieron respuesta.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-garcia-davis-ramirez-jackson-inspect-broadview-ice-processing-center,"Reps.  García, Davis, Ramirez, Jackson Inspect Broadview ICE Processing Center",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO —Today Federal Representatives Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), and Jonathan Jackson (IL-01) returned to the ICE Processing Center at Broadview, Illinois for an oversight visit. A federal court confirmed on December 17 that the Trump Administration cannot block Members of Congress from conducting oversight at immigration detention facilities. The Representatives were joined at a press conference by Erendira Rendon, Vice President for Immigrant Justice at The Resurrection Project (TRP) and Artemio Arreola, Political Director at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR). A video of the press conference can be watched here.

The inspection by the Members of Congress confirmed what they have been hearing from advocates about the center — four detention cells, insufficient sanitary services, no privacy, no medical and mental health services, a place that was not created to keep people overnight.

“We are responding to the needs of our constituents who have called our offices, and they don’t know what happens to their relatives when they are in this detention center,” said Congressman Davis, who represents the district where the Broadview ICE processing center is located. “The court said we are the representatives of the people and that’s why we are here. Our role is to serve and protect the people of our district and that’s what I’ve done all my life and I’m not going to stop now.”

“A federal court reaffirmed what should never have been questioned—that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security cannot block Members of Congress from inspecting facilities funded by the American people. What we saw today confirms why oversight is urgent. It’s a system designed to wear people down rather than process them humanely,” said Congressman García. “What we witnessed reflects a system that treats human beings as inventory. This is already the deadliest period on record for people in ICE custody.Blocking oversight does not protect public safety. Detention on this scale is inherently dehumanizing.”

“Today’s visit is about people, not politics. Inside this facility are mothers and fathers,

workers, and family members who are being held away from their loved ones — many for civil immigration matters, not crimes. Oversight matters because conditions inside these walls affect real human lives: whether someone gets medical care when they’re sick, whether they can speak to their attorney, whether they are treated with dignity,” said Congressman Jackson. “Being allowed inside means we can see for ourselves, listen directly, and make sure our government is living up to its responsibility to treat every person in its custody with basic decency and respect.”

“Under Kristi Noem's leadership, ICE has spent billions of dollars on their unlawful, unaccountable, unconstitutional campaign of terror. There is irrefutable evidence that ICE has held our neighbors, including children and pregnant women, in inhumane conditions in ICE facilities, where they have gone without access to their medication, legal counsel, or basic necessities. Oversight of DHS and ICE facilities is every Member's constitutional right and duty to pursue. And a federal court has granted Members of Congress a court order to do just that.” said Congresswoman Ramirez, who serves on the Homeland Security Committee. “Today’s successful oversight visit to the ICE Processing Center at Broadview is a win for our communities and a necessary first step in holding the Administration accountable for their lawlessness and cruelty. We will not allow DHS to violate our rights, undermine due process, and tear our communities apart. We will continue to fight in Congress, in the courts and in the streets. For my constituents, our neighbors, and our country, I will continue to hold Kristi Noem accountable for her abuses of power and ensure her impeachable offenses are investigated.”

“The decision by DHS to finally allow Congressional oversight is a positive step, it doesn’t do much to shine light on what our detained community members are going through right now,” said Erendira Rendón, Vice President of Immigrant Justice at the Resurrection Project. “People are still being grabbed off the street and transferred across the country, ripped from their families and denied the legal counsel they have a right to. The Resurrection Project is committed to keep fighting for the rights of all immigrants until all of the people who have been stolen from our communities are released and reunited with their loved ones.”

“We will continue working with these representatives and their colleagues to reunite families. Immigrant communities are demanding real solutions and accountability. ICIRR and our partners will continue to demand accountability and transparency,” said Artemio Arreola, Political Director for ICIRR. “We will continue to demand an end to ICE’s violence, regardless of who is in office. We demand an end to detention, an end to raids, and an end to deportations.”

# # #

In June, the Members paid an unannounced visit to the Broadview Processing Center after receiving reports that it was being used to unlawfully detain immigrants, contrary to city and state ordinances. The Members were denied entry, even after identifying themselves with their official Congressional voting cards.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-presses-energy-department-rising-electricity-costs,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Presses Energy Department on Rising Electricity Costs in Wake of New Illinois Grid Report,2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright raising concerns about rising electricity costs and grid reliability risks facing Illinois families and businesses in the wake of a new Illinois Resource Adequacy Study warning of looming capacity shortfalls and higher power prices. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi noted that electricity costs in Illinois have increased more than 14 percent since January 2025, contributing to millions of Americans falling behind on their energy bills and facing the threat of disconnection. Congressman Krishnamoorthi pointed to the 2025 Resource Adequacy Study, which found that regional grids that serve Illinois are projected to face capacity limits and system-wide shortfalls beginning later this decade if the current trends continue. The study makes clear the core problem is not a lack of proposed clean energy projects, but the inability to bring new resources online on schedule.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi highlighted that wind and solar accounted for 93 percent of new electricity added to the U.S. power grid in 2024, making them among the most cost-effective energy sources available. He went on to warn that retreating from these investments and weakening clean energy incentives has slowed project deployment, increased reliability risks, and driven up household energy costs. Congressman Krishnamoorthi also wrote that the study finds rolling back or weakening incentives created by the Inflation Reduction Act could increase delivered electricity prices by as much as 7 to 10 percent by the end of the decade, exacerbating affordability challenges for families and businesses already struggling with higher bills.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested responses to the following questions no later than January 20, 2026:

What actions has the Department taken since January 2025 to reduce interconnection and permitting delays affecting utility-scale wind, solar, battery storage, and transmission projects in PJM and MISO?

What analyses has the Department conducted regarding how changes to Inflation Reduction Act implementation affect clean energy investment and project timelines?

What steps has the Department taken to coordinate with PJM and MISO to address the bottlenecks identified in the Illinois Resource Adequacy Study?

Does the Department agree with the study’s finding that rolling back Inflation Reduction Act incentives may raise electricity prices by 7 to 10 percent? If not, please provide the Department’s alternative estimate and methodology.

Please provide all Department documents, memoranda, or analyses since January 2025 assessing reliability or consumer cost impacts associated with delayed clean energy deployment.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi concluded by stressing that federal energy policy decisions have immediate consequences for electricity affordability, grid reliability, and the financial security of Illinois families and businesses.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi has been a strong advocate for lowering energy prices for Illinoisans. In September, the congressman sent a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright warning about price hikes throughout Illinois. Congressman Krishnamoorthi then visited Windy City Wieners in Bloomington to discuss the impacts high energy prices are having on local and small businesses throughout the state.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://davis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-danny-k-davis-condemns-doj-action-undermining-minority-serving,CONGRESSMAN DANNY K. DAVIS CONDEMNS DOJ ACTION UNDERMINING MINORITY SERVING INSTITUTIONS AND EDUCATIONAL EQUITY,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Danny K. Davis,D000096,davis.house.gov,davis,https://davis.house.gov/media,scraper,"Chicago, IL — Congressman Danny K. Davis issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel opinion declaring key Minority Serving Institution (MSI) programs unconstitutional, prompting the Department of Education to halt or curtail their operation:

“Today’s action by the Department of Justice denies both the constitutionality and the necessity of targeted, compensatory efforts designed to expand educational access for Black, Hispanic, Asian American, Native American, and other historically marginalized communities.

This decision wipes away formal recognition of the very real and well-documented legacy of racism, slavery, Jim Crow segregation, systemic poverty, and structural barriers that continue to shape educational opportunity in America.

To suggest—by any stretch of the imagination—that the playing field in education is equal is simply false.""

Minority Serving Institutions educate roughly five million students—nearly one-third of all undergraduates in this country. These institutions are not symbolic. They are proven engines of economic mobility. They meet students where they are, support low-income and first-generation students, and strengthen entire communities.

When President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Higher Education Act, he made clear that no student should be turned away from college because their family is poor. Today’s actions are deeply at odds with that promise.

Background:

Following the DOJ Office of Legal Counsel opinion, the Department of Education will no longer operate or will significantly curtail several programs, including: Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions; Hispanic-Serving Institutions–STEM; Native American Serving Non-Tribal Institutions; Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions; Predominantly Black Institutions formula grants; Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions; the Minority Science and Engineering Improvement Program; and Native Hawaiian Career and Technical Education programs. Components of TRIO programs, including the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program, are also affected.

Congressman Davis has long championed policies that expand access to education and confront structural inequality as essential to economic mobility and a healthy democracy.",1,2026-05-16T06:05:00Z,2026-05-16T06:06:37Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-conducts-oversight-visit-broadview-ice-facility,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Conducts Oversight Visit at Broadview ICE Facility After Months of Being Unlawfully Denied Access,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BROADVIEW, IL — Today, following a federal court ruling blocking the Trump administration’s restrictions on congressional access to immigration detention facilities, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) conducted an oversight visit at the Broadview Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility after months of being unlawfully denied entry. Earlier this week, U.S. District Judge Jia M. Cobb temporarily paused ICE and Department of Homeland Security policies requiring Members of Congress to provide seven days’ notice before visiting immigration detention facilities—restrictions the court found likely exceeded DHS’s statutory authority and interfered with Congress’s constitutional oversight responsibilities.

“For months, the Trump Administration blocked lawful congressional oversight into conditions inside immigration detention facilities, including here in Broadview, while carrying out increasingly militarized immigration raids that sow fear in our communities,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “Congress has both the legal authority and the obligation to conduct real-time oversight. My visit follows a clear court ruling reaffirming that authority, and I will continue using every tool available to force the Trump Administration to follow the law, respect due process, and treat people in custody with dignity the American people demand.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-introduces-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-increase-diversity,"Rep. Kelly introduces bipartisan, bicameral bill to increase diversity in clinical trials",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) introduced the bipartisan and bicameral NIH Clinical Trial Integrity Act to increase the diversity of participants in clinical trials funded by the National Institutes of Health. This bill is also led by U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and U.S. Senators Andy Kim (D-NJ) and Susan Collins (R-ME).

“When people are excluded from clinical trials, they are also excluded from treatments for chronic diseases. The data clearly lays out the fact that historically marginalized communities disproportionately suffer from certain illnesses and diseases – but we are excluded from clinical trials,” said Rep. Kelly, Chair of the CBC Health Braintrust. “I’m proud to work with my colleagues across the aisle and in the Senate to ensure better representation in our clinical trials. No one should be left behind in the pursuit of medical breakthroughs.”

“Medical breakthroughs are only as strong as the data behind them—and data that excludes entire communities is incomplete by definition,” said Representative Fitzpatrick. “The NIH Clinical Trial Integrity Act strengthens the integrity of our research by ensuring clinical trials reflect the full diversity of the patients they are meant to serve. This bipartisan, bicameral effort is about inclusion, accountability, and better science—so that lifesaving treatments work for everyone.”

“Biomedical research holds tremendous promise for treating many of the most costly and devastating diseases we face. To ensure that the benefits of cutting-edge medical science reach all Americans, it is important that participants in clinical trials reflect our overall population,” said Senator Collins. “By encouraging long-term planning and improving demographic representation in clinical studies, this bipartisan legislation would help enhance the effectiveness of critical research that is conducted and sponsored by the NIH.”

“We have a responsibility to ensure Americans of all backgrounds have fair and equal access to treatment and care. This needs to begin with fair and equal representation in the earliest stages of health research and testing, including clinical trials,” said Senator Kim. “I hope we can come together to use this legislation as a tool to combat dangerous and persistent health inequities that are putting communities of color and diverse backgrounds at-risk.”

The NIH Clinical Trial Integrity Act will:

• Require NIH to work with clinical trial sponsors to develop clear and measurable recruitment and retention goals based on disease/condition prevalence as well as a rationale for specified goals and a recruitment plan;

• Ensure the availability of less burdensome follow-ups during clinical trials (e.g. fewer follow ups, phone participation, weekend hours) to increase participation of underrepresented populations;

• Launch a public awareness campaign across federal agencies related to research participation opportunities.

The bill has been endorsed by the Association of Black Cardiologists, Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation, Blood Cancer United, Susan G. Komen Foundation, American Psychological Association, National Organizations for Rare Disease (NORD), TOUCH: The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, Doctors for America.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-introduces-legislation-strengthen-federal-port-infrastructure,Rep. Kelly Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Federal Port Infrastructure Investments Nationwide,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Chicago, IL. – Today, Representatives Robin Kelly (IL-02), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Dave Joyce (OH-14), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Frank Mrvan (IN-01), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), Randy Weber (TX-14), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), and Erin Houchin (IN-09) led the bipartisan introduction of the Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act. This legislation strengthens the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) by ensuring federal investments are distributed more evenly across regional port systems nationwide. Currently, inland and Great Lakes ports receive a disproportionately small share of federal support, limiting their ability to modernize infrastructure, expand capacity, and remain competitive. By rebalancing how funds are awarded, the bill helps unlock the full economic and national security potential of ports across the interior, strengthening America’s supply chain resilience and global competitiveness. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the companion legislation in the Senate.

“Illinois’ ports, including the Illinois International Port District in Chicago, are vital to our agricultural and manufacturing supply chains,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “This bill would ensure the Great Lakes and inland ports receive a fair share of federal investment so they can operate safely, efficiently, and drive economic growth in the Second District and across Illinois.”

“Our ports are the front doors of American trade. This bill ensures smart federal investments in local jobs, improves supply chains, and enhances our economic security,” said Congresswoman Kaptur. “In my region that means shoring up our Great Lakes ports to allow goods commodities to flow up through the Soo Locks and on to Europe through the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway. I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining this effort to invest in economic growth and improve waterborne shipping to the world.”

“Inland ports are the backbone of the nation’s supply chain. When they fall behind, America falls behind, and our economic security and national security are put at risk,” said Congressman Joyce. “Federal port infrastructure dollars can’t just flow to major coastal hubs. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act guarantees that ports across the Great Lakes, Gulf Coast, and inland waterways can compete for critical upgrades that keep goods moving, reduce bottlenecks, and strengthen America’s strategic and economic competitiveness. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Kennedy and grateful for his continued advocacy on behalf of the Great Lakes.”

“The Great Lakes are a way of life for us in Michigan and across the Heartland. They drive and support industries that create jobs and sustain communities across the country,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “Our Great Lakes ports are just as essential to the U.S. as coastal ports and deserve equal federal investment. I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill to ensure the Great Lakes port system is fairly considered for maintenance and modernization that will support competitiveness and economic security.”

“Our ports are the backbone of our regional economy and serve as a critical link in keeping America’s supply chains moving,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “In the Great Lakes region these ports support good-paying jobs and strengthen our national security. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act ensures that federal infrastructure dollars are distributed fairly, so inland ports and surrounding communities can reap the economic benefits from modernized and resilient infrastructure.”

“It would be a detriment to both our national security and our economy to overlook the Great Lakes when it comes to port infrastructure funding decisions,” said Congressman Huizenga. “Our nation’s coastal ports are important, but don’t operate in a vacuum. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act ensures industry and commerce while enhancing security, growing the economy, supporting job creation, and lowering costs.”

“Thank you to Rep. Joyce and my Congressional colleagues for introducing this legislation to ensure that all of our ports receive their fair share of federal funding for infrastructure investments,” said Congressman Mrvan. “Efficient and well-functioning ports are critical to the economic success of working families and communities throughout our nation, including in Northwest Indiana, and I look forward to continuing to advance this important legislation.”

“Federal port dollars shouldn’t be funneled to the same handful of coastal ports while inland and Gulf Coast ports that move America’s energy, agriculture, and manufactured goods are left behind,” said Congressman Weber. “The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act simply requires the Department of Transportation to consider equitable geographic distribution, ensuring every port has a fair shot and that our national supply chain is stronger, more resilient, and more secure.”

“I am pleased to cosponsor this legislation to ensure ports along Lake Ontario receive fair consideration in federal infrastructure funding,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “These ports are critical to Upstate New York’s economy and support manufacturing, agriculture, construction, and good paying jobs across NY-24. This bill is a smart investment in economic resilience, efficiency, and national security.”

“Communities across Indiana depend on efficient freight networks to move the agriculture and manufacturing goods that power our economy,” said Congresswoman Houchin. “When inland ports, like our own on the Ohio River, are overlooked for federal investment, it can create delays in shipping that affect businesses and workers. The Securing Smart Investments in our Ports Act is a practical solution that ensures every region gets a fair shot at critical funding to keep our supply chain moving.”

""As a leading advocate for Ohio and the Great Lakes, Congressman Joyce has been instrumental in creating good-paying American jobs and strengthening our communities,” said Brian Oszakiewski, Executive Director of the American Great Lakes Ports Association. “This legislation helps ensure the Heartland receives its fair share of federal investment. We are grateful for Congressman Joyce’s leadership and thank his congressional colleagues for their support of balanced, long-term funding for critical port infrastructure across the Great Lakes region.”

“This bill is an important step to ensure that the world's longest deep draft commercial waterway - the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System - receives its fair share of funding to continue improving the safety and reliability of our region's ports,” said Erika Jensen, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Commission.

Summary:

This bill would amend the Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) to ensure that federal port improvement funds are awarded more evenly across different regions of the country. The bill directs the Department of Transportation to consider geographic distribution when selecting projects for both the Port and Intermodal Improvement Program and for assistance targeted to inland and coastal ports and terminals. The legislation explicitly includes inland ports, meaning ports on the Great Lakes, along inland waterways, and other interior ports would be eligible for funding under the program and considered in the geographic distribution requirements. In practice, the bill ensures that federal investments are not concentrated in only a few regions and that ports of all sizes and locations have a fair chance to compete for funding.

Endorsing Organizations: Great Lakes Commission and the American Great Lakes Ports Association.

Background:

The Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) provides critical investments for port infrastructure and intermodal improvements. Historically, a disproportionate share of this funding has gone to large, coastal, or high-volume ports, leaving smaller or inland facilities with limited access to these federal resources. For example, since Fiscal Year 2019, only 2 percent of Port Infrastructure Development Program funding has gone to the Great Lakes region, compared with 38 percent to West Coast ports and 34 percent to East Coast ports. As freight movement grows increasingly interconnected, equitable investment in all types of ports is essential for improving overall logistics efficiency, economic development, and national resilience.

Inland ports support manufacturing supply chains, serve hundreds of millions of people, and play a critical role in national security by transporting essential materials such as iron ore, cement, and aggregates. Since America’s beginning, inland waterways have provided a resilient alternative to exposed coastal shipping routes, easier to monitor and protect from physical or cyber threats. During World War II, these waterways were vital, enabling the transport of troops, materials, and supplies while avoiding German attacks on major ports. Today, inland ports remain a secure and reliable backbone of the nation’s logistics network, ensuring critical materials reach where they’re needed most to support both military readiness and domestic manufacturing.

Investing in these ports would strengthen national supply chains, improve cost efficiency, reduce road congestion and emissions, and enhance the resilience and reliability of freight movement. Modernization efforts, including dredging, dock improvements, and intermodal connections, ensure that these ports can accommodate larger vessels, handle seasonal peaks, and maintain timely delivery of goods. Supporting inland port systems isn’t about local favoritism; it’s about recognizing that inland infrastructure is just as critical as our coastal gateways.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-condemns-house-republicans-failing-american-families-and-leaving,Underwood Condemns House Republicans for Failing American Families and Leaving Town Without Saving Health Care,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Yesterday, House Republicans dismissed the House and left Washington for holiday break without scheduling a vote on Rep. Lauren Underwood’s legislation to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits for an additional three years. Four Republicans joined Democrats on a discharge petition to force a vote on the legislation on Wednesday, but House Speaker Mike Johnson ignored that bipartisan consensus, and has delayed the vote to January.

The popular tax credits will expire on December 31st, 2025, and millions of families will now go into the holiday season facing skyrocketing health care costs next year.

“Health care is a human right, and for months we have called on Republicans to address this issue and give families peace of mind by making the incredibly popular tax credits from my legislation permanent,” said Rep Underwood. “But they have done nothing, and now millions of families will head into the holiday season filled with uncertainty and anxiety about the future of our health care. This is a crisis that Republicans have created through their own cruelty and neglect. It’s completely unacceptable, and our communities deserve better.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/bost-budzinski-introduce-bill-to-modernize-usda-loan-programs,"BOST, BUDZINSKI INTRODUCE BILL TO MODERNIZE USDA LOAN PROGRAMS",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) introduced legislation Wednesday to remove outdated eligibility barriers that prevent modern family farms from accessing U.S. Department of Agriculture loan programs. The USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility standards to better reflect the structure of today’s multi-generational, family-run farms, expanding access to operating, emergency, and real estate loans for producers in Southern Illinois and across the country.

“For too long, USDA loan rules have failed to keep up with the reality of modern farming,” said Bost. “Family farms shouldn’t be punished for choosing a path that helps them manage risk or plan for the next generation. Our legislation cuts through red tape, brings common sense back to USDA lending, and makes sure farmers who are doing things the right way aren’t locked out from the capital they need to keep their operations running.”

""While farming operations have changed drastically over time, our loan rules haven’t kept up,"" said Budzinski. ""This legislation closes that gap by updating USDA loan rules and making sure small and multi-generational family farmers aren’t penalized for using responsible, modern business structures. Most importantly, it puts decisions back in farmers’ hands — giving them the freedom to set up their operations and land in ways that work best for their families without putting their existing FSA loans at risk.""

""Farm Credit thanks Reps. Bost and Budzinski for introducing the USDA Loan Modernization Act,"" said Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfer. ""This small but meaningful update to FSA loan program eligibility requirements will allow the next generation of producers to utilize modern farm business structures while still accessing FSA loan programs. We look forward to working with Reps. Bost and Budzinski to ensure this important legislation is included in Farm Bill 2.0.""

The USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility requirements to allow producers with at least a 50 percent operational interest to qualify for loans and gives the Farm Service Agency greater flexibility to consider a range of family farm entities. The legislation is supported by groups including the Farm Credit Council, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Farm Credit Illinois, Compeer, National Rural Lenders Association, Independent Community Bankers Association, Illinois Farm Bureau Federation, and the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-durbin-duckworth-introduce-resolution-honoring-illinois-blue-ribbon-schools-after-trump-administration-ends-program,"Casten, Durbin, Duckworth Introduce Resolution Honoring Illinois’ Blue Ribbon Schools After Trump Administration Ends Program",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (December 18, 2025) — After the Trump Administration ended the Blue Ribbon Schools Program, U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-06), U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today introduced a resolution to recognize the 28 Illinois schools that were selected to receive the designation of Blue Ribbon Schools this year. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program was a national recognition from the U.S. Department of Education given to public, charter, and private schools for their exemplary education and work to close the achievement gap.

“Illinois’ Blue Ribbon Schools represent the very best of our state’s education system,” said Rep. Casten. “Teachers, administrators, and students work tirelessly to earn this distinction, which recognizes a sustained commitment to academic excellence. Although the Trump Administration needlessly ended the program, Congress can and should continue to honor deserving institutions. I am proud to introduce this resolution with Senators Durbin and Duckworth to ensure their achievements receive the recognition they’ve earned.”

“Rather than continue our nation’s tradition of celebrating schools that have dedicated themselves to closing the achievement gap, the Trump Administration has focused its energy on closing the Department of Education at the detriment of our nation’s students and their education. While the Trump Administration will not recognize the hard work of educators, I am proud to celebrate the achievements of Illinois schools who earned the title of being a Blue Ribbon School,” said Sen. Durbin. “My resolution with Senator Duckworth and Congressman Casten gives these schools – and the educators, faculty, and staff that run them – the recognition they deserve.”

“Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our schools and support our teachers,” Sen. Duckworth said. “I’m proud to recognize this year’s National Blue Ribbon Schools across Illinois and their efforts to help students thrive inside and outside the classroom. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin to ensure that all students—no matter their zip code—have the opportunity to grow and thrive.”

Created in 1982 by the Reagan Administration, the Blue Ribbon Schools Program was the highest federal recognition a school could receive. The program showcased the best teaching practices of educators and encouraged other schools to model them. Since its inception, the program has honored more than 9,000 public, private, charter, and parochial schools nationwide.

Joining Casten, Durbin, and Duckworth in introducing the resolution are U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Bill Foster (D-IL-11), Johnathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14).

Full text of the resolution is available here.

Illinois schools that were selected for the 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools designation prior to the discontinuation of the program are:

Ascension Catholic School – Oak Park, Illinois

Clarendon Hills Middle School – Clarendon Hills, Illinois

Glen Oaks Elementary School – Hickory Hills, Illinois

Highlands Elementary School – La Grange, Illinois

Kennedy Junior High School – Lisle, Illinois

Liberty Intermediate School – Bourbonnais, Illinois

Lincoln-Way East High School – Frankfort, Illinois

Lyons Township High School – La Grange, Illinois

Mascoutah Middle School – Mascoutah, Illinois

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy – Chicago, Illinois

Pleasantdale Middle School – Burr Ridge, Illinois

Prescott Elementary School – Chicago, Illinois

Regina Dominican High School – Wilmette, Illinois

Sarah Adams Elementary School – Lake Zurich, Illinois

St. Anne Catholic School – Barrington, Illinois

St. Giles School – Oak Park, Illinois

St. John of the Cross Parish School – Western Springs, Illinois

St. Matthias School – Chicago, Illinois

St. Norbert School – Northbrook, Illinois

St. Therese Chinese Catholic School – Chicago, Illinois

Sunset Ridge Elementary School – Northfield, Illinois

The Academy at St. Joan of Arc – Evanston, Illinois

Timothy Christian P–8 – Elmhurst, Illinois

Walker Elementary School – Clarendon Hills, Illinois

Warren Elementary School – Warren, Illinois

Wheaton Academy – West Chicago, Illinois

William Fremd High School – Palatine, Illinois

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart – Lake Forest, Illinois

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-raises-alarm-over-planned-va-health-care-staffing,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi Raises Alarm Over Planned VA Health Care Staffing Cuts, Presses for Answers on Impact to Veterans",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins expressing serious concern over reports that the VA plans to eliminate as many as 35,000 health care positions across the Veterans Health Administration, including clinical and support roles. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi warns that eliminating currently vacant positions risks worsening wait times, disrupting continuity of care, and limiting access to critical services for veterans nationwide — particularly in systems that are already under strain.

“Veterans across the country rely on the VA for timely, high-quality medical care, mental health services, and benefits processing,"" Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote. ""In Illinois alone, hundreds of thousands of veterans depend on VA health care and services, including veterans affected by toxic exposures recognized under the PACT Act.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi highlights the potential impact on Illinois veterans, noting that hundreds of vacancies at major VA facilities in the Chicago area — including the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center and the Lovell Federal Health Care Center — are reportedly slated for elimination.

“The fact that a position is vacant does not mean it is unnecessary. In many VA facilities, vacancies reflect persistent hiring challenges in a tight health-care labor market — not a lack of need. From the perspective of veterans awaiting appointments, delayed procedures, or mental health services, an unfilled position often represents care that has not yet arrived, not care that is no longer required.”

The letter also cites warnings from health care staff already working in VA facilities, including reports that existing vacancies have pushed staff to a breaking point and made staffing shortages the new norm. Absent a clear, facility-by-facility explanation of how eliminating these positions would improve care delivery, Congressman Krishnamoorthi expresses concern that the decision could lock in staffing shortages, limit future capacity, and prolong wait times — particularly as more veterans seek care under expanded eligibility through the PACT Act.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi requests detailed responses from the Department by January 3, 2026, including how VA is assessing the impact of these job eliminations on veterans’ wait times, how it plans to ensure sufficient staffing capacity if veteran enrollment increases, and whether preserving and filling high-need clinical and mental health roles could improve care delivery. Emphasizing the stakes of these decisions, he concludes: “Veterans kept their promise to our country. We must keep ours to them. Decisions that affect staffing levels at the VA should be guided first and foremost by their impact on veterans’ health, safety, and dignity.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-jayapal-mcbride-foushee-lead-legislation-end-trump-use-police,"Quigley, Jayapal, McBride, Foushee Lead Legislation to End Trump Use of Police for Immigration Enforcement",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Sarah McBride (DE-At Large), and Valerie Foushee (NC-04) re-introduced the Protecting the Rights of Towns against federal Enforcement contrary to Constitutional Tenets for (PROTECT) Immigration Act, legislation which would end the deputization of local and state police departments to enforce immigration law. The PROTECT Immigration Act would rescind the statutory authority for the federal government's 287(g) Program, which allows the Department of Homeland Security to enter into agreements with state and local law enforcement agencies to enforce federal immigration law.

“The Trump administration just spent months terrorizing immigrants in the Chicagoland area. Their actions led to domestic violence victims fleeing a courthouse rather than receive restraining orders against their abusers, all out of fear that ICE or local law enforcement would detain and deport them,” said Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05). “I met with immigrants and their neighbors who are afraid to call for help or report crimes in their neighborhoods because of Trump’s deliberate erosion of trust between communities and local police. And now the Trump administration is running ads targeting local police and offering $50,000 signing bonuses to pull critical law enforcement away from day-to-day policing in order to arrest and detain hardworking immigrants with no criminal records. We must bring an end to the 287(g) program and cut off one of the avenues this administration has exploited to intimidate immigrant communities.”

“Allowing local law enforcement to be deputized to kidnap and disappear immigrants undercuts the trust that local police rely on to maintain public safety in our communities,” said Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07). “Immigrants and their U.S. citizen loved ones stop reporting crimes out of fear of being kidnapped and deported. Local police are spread thin enforcing federal civil immigration law. We know that Trump is not targeting criminals, he is targeting our friends, neighbors, co-workers, and pillars of our community. This lawlessness must end immediately.”

""I’m proud to co-lead this legislation with Congressman Quigley to restore trust, safety, and integrity to our immigration system. For too long, the 287(g) program has drained local resources, fueled racial profiling, and made communities less safe — and it’s time we end it. The PROTECT Immigration Act makes clear that immigration enforcement belongs with trained federal authorities, guaranteeing that local law enforcement can focus exclusively on keeping our communities safe. This bill would take a step toward restoring trust between local communities and police departments so every family can live with dignity and without fear,” said Representative Sarah McBride (DE-At Large).

“The Trump Administration’s attempt to expand the 287(g) Program is a direct assault on civil rights and the Constitution,” said Representative Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “Having served in local law enforcement for more than 20 years, I know policing should protect and support our communities, not divide it, and deputizing local officers into immigration enforcers only erodes public trust, undermines public safety, and deepens fear. We need laws in place that restore fairness and uphold justice. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the PROTECT Immigration Act, which will reverse this harmful program and take an important step toward repairing the flaws in our broken immigration system.”

“In just one year, the Trump administration has massively expanded the 287(g) program and distorted it in ways Congress never intended, exploiting local law enforcement resources for its dystopian mass deportation agenda,” said Naureen Shah, director of policy and government affairs for the ACLU’s Equality Division. “Enlisting local law enforcement for mass deportations isn’t just a waste of taxpayer dollars – it terrorizes our communities, undermines public safety and fuels racial profiling. We thank Congressman Quigley for his leadership and urge our members of Congress to pass the PROTECT Immigration Act without delay.”

“The rapid expansion of the 287(g) program under the Trump administration represents yet another way that mass deportation undermines public safety for all Americans. When local police serve as a force multiplier for ICE, people become more afraid to report crime and less trusting of local police officers. Local law enforcement agencies should prioritize real public safety concerns in their communities rather than waste limited manpower making traffic stops that turn into detention and deportation for long-standing community members who pose no threat. The PROTECT Act takes the overdue step of repealing a program that is unnecessary for effective enforcement of immigration laws, but continues to have a harmful track record for public safety,” said Nayna Gupta, Policy Director at the American Immigration Council.

Quigley has championed the PROTECT Immigration Act since 2017.

The PROTECT Immigration Act would:

Repeal the statutory authority for the 287(g) Program; and

Clarify that state and local law enforcement lack ""inherent authority"" to arrest people for suspected immigration offenses.

The legislation is also cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (Del.-DC), Sarah Jacobs (CA-51), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Henry ""Hank"" Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-tlaib-statement-death-illinois-resident-north-lake-processing-center,"Ramirez, Tlaib Statement on Death of Illinois Resident at North Lake Processing Center in Michigan",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC—Today, Congresswomen Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) released the following statement after receiving notification that a 56-year-old immigrant man, Nenko Stanev Gantchev, a resident of Illinois and a citizen of Bulgaria, died on December 15th in ICE custody at the North Lake Processing Center in Michigan.

“We are deeply concerned about the death of Mr. Gantchev, an Illinois resident who was detained at the for-profit GEO Group’s North Lake Processing Center. While ICE claims he died of natural causes, the circumstances surrounding his death are not yet clear, and we know there have been numerous complaints from family members and advocates about inhumane conditions and inadequate medical care at North Lake. We demand an immediate, transparent investigation into the circumstances of Mr. Gantchev’s death, including an investigation into reports from other detainees that he asked for medical assistance and did not receive it in time to save his life.

To date, we are aware of at least 30 deaths at ICE detention centers this year, making 2025 the deadliest year for immigrants in ICE custody. The Trump administration’s attacks on our communities and immigrant neighbors must end. We will continue to provide oversight to hold ICE accountable and protect our residents and communities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-sends-letters-secretary-rfk-jr-administrator-oz-health,"Rep. Kelly sends letters to Secretary RFK Jr., Administrator Oz, health insurance companies to investigate mistreatment of Mercedes Wells, Karrie Jones",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – After announcing the WELLS Act, U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) continues to take action and demand accountability for her constituent, Mercedes Wells, who was discharged while in active labor. She sent letters to five of the largest health insurance companies, the Office of Inspector General at the health department, and Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr.

“Racism in our healthcare system is preventing Black women from receiving the treatment they need and deserve,” said Rep. Kelly. “I’m working on this issue at every angle, from health insurance companies to hospital systems to federal investigations and legislation. We all have a role in improving our healthcare system. I brought the issue of maternal mortality to Congress. I will keep sharing Mercedes’s story, and uplifting the voices of women who have gone unheard, until every mother gets the care she deserves.”

Reps. Kelly, Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and 31 Members of Congress sent a letter demanding investigations into the hospitals that mistreated Wells and Karrie Jones, another Black woman who was delayed care, to the Office of Inspector General at the Department of Health and Human Services. Formal investigations should be launched to determine whether Franciscan Health in Crown Point, Indiana, and Dallas Regional Medical Center violated the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor (EMTALA) Act of 1986.

“These cases [of Mercedes Wells and Karrie Jones] are not isolated failures; they are part of the ongoing warnings of the Black maternal health crisis, heightened by funding cuts for maternal health and equity,” wrote the Members. “Federal protections like EMTALA mean little without enforcement, transparency, and accountability.”

Read the full letter here.

Reps. Kelly, Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and 49 Members of Congress sent a letter urging Secretary Kennedy to wield his department’s oversight powers to ensure hospitals adhere to patient-safety standards. Hospitals must also comply with civil rights protections of the Affordable Care Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race.

“These failures in judgment and oversight are unacceptable and raise serious concerns about whether hospitals receiving federal funds are meeting their obligations under federal law, including patient safety standards and nondiscrimination requirements,” wrote the members.

Read the full letter here.

Rep. Kelly also sent letters to the CEOs of major health insurance companies, including Humana, UnitedHealth Group, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and Cigna Group. She is urging health insurance companies to utilize their market position to improve policies and outcomes for patients.

As she writes in her letter, “While your organization is not a direct provider of hospital services, health insurance companies play a pivotal role in shaping hospital standards through contracting requirements, quality metrics, and network adequacy.”

Read the full letters to Jim Rechtin with Humana, Stephen Hemsely with United Health Group, Steve Nelson with Aetna, Kim Keck with Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and David Cordani with Cigna Group.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-demands-bls-ensure-high-quality-non-partisan-economic-data,"Casten Demands BLS Ensure High-Quality, Non-Partisan Economic Data",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) led 23 House Democrats in a letter to Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer and Acting Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) William Wiatrowski, criticizing President Trump’s politically-motivated attacks on government statistics and urging BLS to protect the credibility, quality, and independence of U.S. economic data.

“We are concerned that recent developments, in addition to persistent data collection challenges and budgetary shortfalls, could affect access to information critical for understanding and responding to this Administration’s failed economic policies,” the lawmakers wrote. “BLS, an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Labor, plays an important role by publishing statistics that provide a complete and factual picture of the rapidly changing U.S. economy. Congress, the Executive Branch, and the Federal Reserve (Fed) all rely on timely, accurate, and granular economic data to make informed decisions that impact every corner of the country.”

The Trump Administration has taken multiple steps to cast doubt on the jobs and inflation data released by BLS, including by firing BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer over the release of weak job numbers that were reflective of the harmful impact of the Administration’s tariff and immigration policies. Furthermore, due to the government shutdown, certain information will be permanently missing from the October 2025 Jobs Report, presenting a partial blind spot for policymakers, the private sector, and the general public on the state of the U.S. economy.

The lawmakers further urged BLS to work to improve the quality of its data.

“BLS can take steps to modernize its existing systems and data collection practices…BLS can invest in innovation, incorporate digitized information into its statistical programs, and consider the use of large language models (LLMs) to make it easier for people to report their industries, occupations, and activities,” the lawmakers continued. “We urge the Administration to grant BLS leadership flexibility to spend congressionally-appropriated funds in ways that prioritize these upgrades, partnerships, and its ability to hire, retain, and train talent.”

In addition to Rep Casten, the letter was signed by Reps. Joyce Beatty, Janelle Bynum, Emanuel Cleaver, Cleo Fields, Bill Foster, Sylvia Garcia, Vicente Gonzalez, Josh Gottheimer, Al Green, Jim Himes, Sam Liccardo, Stephen Lynch, Dave Min, Gregory Meeks, Brittany Pettersen, Ayanna Pressley, David Scott, Brad Sherman, Rashida Tlaib, Ritchie Torres, Juan Vargas, Nydia Velázquez, and Nikema Williams.

A copy of the letter can be found here. Text of the letter can be found below.

Dear Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and Acting Commissioner Wiatrowski:

We write to seek information about the quality and quantity of core economic data prepared by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which could be at risk following the longest government shutdown in U.S. history and given President Trump’s unfounded attacks on the integrity of federal statistical agencies. We are concerned that recent developments, in addition to persistent data collection challenges and budgetary shortfalls, could affect access to information critical for understanding and responding to this Administration’s failed economic policies.

BLS, an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Labor, plays an important role by publishing statistics that provide a complete and factual picture of the rapidly changing U.S. economy. Congress, the Executive Branch, and the Federal Reserve (Fed) all rely on timely, accurate, and granular economic data to make informed decisions that impact every corner of the country. Specifically, the Fed utilizes BLS data daily to monitor inflation measures, examine job growth trends, and analyze the U.S. economy. The Fed leans on this data when setting interest rates and taking other actions consistent with its dual mandate. In addition, the private sector relies on BLS data to make investment, hiring, and pay decisions and as a benchmark for their own data. Lastly, in order to maintain a robust U.S. Treasury market and the U.S. dollar as the world’s primary reserve currency, it is essential that the rest of the world views U.S. economic statistics as intellectually robust and free from political influence.

Due to disruptions from the Republican-manufactured government shutdown, BLS confirmed that it will not publish the unemployment rate for October, marking the first omission in 77 years. This data gap leaves policymakers, businesses, homeowners, and the general public in the dark on the current state of the labor market and broader economy.

Furthermore, the level of participation in BLS’ voluntary surveys has declined in recent years, partly due to difficulties reaching people and businesses via phone or in-person visits to collect this data. For example, response rates for BLS’ employment establishment survey, which collects data from businesses and is a key component of the agency’s monthly jobs report, averaged around 60% between 2009 and 2019, but have since declined to less than 45%. Furthermore, response rates for two BLS surveys of retail businesses and households, which form the basis for calculating the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a key indicator of inflation for consumer prices, have dropped significantly since 2014. Some have also attributed declining survey rates to an eroding trust in institutions and government. President Trump’s baseless removal of Commissioner Erika McEntarfer further threatens to undermine the credibility of federal economic statistics, according to two former BLS commissioners appointed by presidents of both parties. More broadly, this trend means that incoming data may have become less accurate and subject to larger revisions, which can make it more difficult for policymakers to assess current economic conditions, according to Fed researchers.

Under this Administration, declining response rates, increased data collection costs, and budget concerns have forced difficult decisions regarding survey sample sizes and the metrics that are gathered. In May, BLS announced that it will stop calculating and publishing 350 indexes, including those related to specific industries, that contribute to the Producer Price Index (PPI), a key indicator of inflation for producers of consumer goods. Then, in July, BLS announced that it had stopped gathering CPI data in three metro areas and reduced the sample size by 15% in the 72 other surveyed areas because current resources are insufficient. We are concerned that BLS is losing granularity in its inflation measures, which could make it more difficult to assess tariff-driven price increases across the country.

To address these issues, BLS can take steps to modernize its existing systems and data collection practices. For example, the Census Bureau, in collaboration with BLS, is currently testing the use of online self-response data collection for the Current Population Survey (CPS), which serves as the primary source of labor statistics. BLS can also directly focus on hard-to-reach cases in its surveys, which could help improve response rates and reduce bias. In addition, BLS can invest in innovation, incorporate digitized information into its statistical programs, and consider the use of large language models (LLMs) to make it easier for people to report their industries, occupations, and activities. Lastly, a bipartisan group of around 90 economists have suggested that BLS deepen its partnerships with the private sector and evaluate how private sector and administrative data can complement public statistics, while still preserving data integrity and privacy. We urge the Administration to grant BLS leadership flexibility to spend congressionally-appropriated funds in ways that prioritize these upgrades, partnerships, and its ability to hire, retain, and train talent.

We recognize the importance of ensuring the nonpartisan integrity of BLS. We have the shared goal of ensuring that U.S. economic data is accurate, credible, and—like the U.S. economy itself—remains the best in the world. To that end, we request that you respond to the following questions by no later than January 6, 2026.

When will the BLS publish the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for October?

Due to President Trump’s attacks, BLS has lost 12 of its 35 senior leaders in recent months. How does the Labor Department plan to address this loss of critical expertise and institutional knowledge?

At current budgetary levels, does BLS expect to scale back any existing programs over the next few months? Are any BLS programs being considered for elimination? If so, please list the affected programs.

Please provide an update on the timeline for the modernization of the Current Population Survey (CPS). Has BLS experienced any challenges in implementing these efforts?

Is BLS considering increasing or expanding existing programs by blending survey data with administrative data, including by leveraging information-sharing agreements with other state or federal agencies?

Are there any statutory limitations to improving coordination with other federal agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)?

In 2022, BLS replaced the collection of new-vehicle prices with transaction data from private sector sources, though it took two years for staff to ensure it provided a reliable measure and to implement the change. Is BLS considering the use of private sector data for any other metrics?

If so, please provide information related to the specific BLS programs that would use these private sector data. How is BLS ensuring that BLS products remain accurate and nationally representative after incorporating private sector data?

Are there limitations on how economic data available from private sources can be adapted by BLS?

Is BLS taking steps to leverage automation and digitalization technologies to potentially improve how economic data are produced and shared?

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://davis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-danny-k-davis-condemns-antisemitic-attack-australia-and-violence,CONGRESSMAN DANNY K. DAVIS CONDEMNS ANTISEMITIC ATTACK IN AUSTRALIA AND VIOLENCE AT BROWN UNIVERSITY,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Danny K. Davis,D000096,davis.house.gov,davis,https://davis.house.gov/media,scraper,"D.C. — Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) today issued a strong condemnation following the horrific antisemitic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, and the tragic shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.

The attack in Australia, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration, resulted in the loss of at least 15 lives and left dozens more injured.1Hours earlier, a separate mass shooting at Brown University shook the academic community, highlighting the ongoing crisis of gun violence in our educational institutions.

“I am deeply saddened and outraged by the senseless violence that occurred this past weekend,” said Congressman Davis. “The targeting of Jewish families in Australia as they gathered to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah is a chilling reminder of the persistent and dangerous threat of antisemitism worldwide. Hatred and bigotry have no place in a global society, and we must stand united against those who seek to divide us through terror.”

Congressman Davis, a lifelong champion of civil rights and human dignity, emphasized that these events underscore a disturbing rise in hate-based violence.

“My heart goes out to the victims, their families, and the students at Brown University who have been forced to endure the trauma of gun violence. Whether it is in our houses of worship, on our beaches, or on our college campuses, no one should have to live in fear. I join my colleagues and people of conscience everywhere in rejecting antisemitism, racism, and all forms of intolerance. We must double our efforts to protect the vulnerable and hold those who perpetrate such acts accountable.”

Congressman Davis remains committed to legislative efforts that strengthen civil rights protections and address the root causes of violence both at home and abroad. He calls for a thorough investigation into these incidents and urges continued international cooperation to combat the scourge of hate.

About Congressman Danny K. Davis

Congressman Danny K. Davis represents the 7th Congressional District of Illinois and is a senior member of the House Committee on Ways and Means. He has long been recognized as a national leader in welfare policy, civil rights, and social justice.",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-demands-answers-cabinet-secretaries-dhs-actions,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Demands Answers from Cabinet Secretaries on DHS Actions Targeting Striking Workers in Chicago,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Department of Labor Secretary Lori M. Chavez-DeRemer raising concerns about federal law enforcement conduct toward workers engaged in lawful strike activity in Chicago. In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi cites video footage from December 16 showing uniformed officers interacting with striking workers in a manner that he warns may constitute unlawful interference with activity protected under federal labor law and the U.S. Constitution.

“Video footage recorded by members of the public shows Commander Bovino and uniformed law enforcement officers surrounding striking workers, laughing at them, and engaging in conduct that appears intended to intimidate and chill protected activity, all while the workers were engaged in lawful strike actions safeguarded by the U.S. Constitution and federal labor law,"" Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote. ""Federal courts, state courts, and federal agencies have long and consistently held that core labor protections, including the right to organize, to engage in concerted activity, and to be free from retaliation, apply to all workers, regardless of immigration status. Federal law enforcement officials have no lawful basis to interfere with workers’ rights to organize or to collectively bargain.”

The letter also cautions against the use, or perceived use, of immigration enforcement during labor disputes. ""The use, or perceived use, of immigration enforcement as leverage during a labor dispute is fundamentally incompatible with federal labor policy and corrodes trust in both labor and immigration institutions,"" Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote in the letter.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi requests that the Department of Labor promptly review the incident and, where appropriate, coordinate with or refer the matter to the National Labor Relations Board, and examine whether Mauser or any entity acting on its behalf coordinated with immigration enforcement officials in connection with the intimidation of Teamsters Local 705 workers.

He concludes by requesting a prompt response detailing what steps the Departments are taking to investigate the matter and to ensure that federal law enforcement is never used, explicitly or implicitly, to suppress lawful labor activity.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-statement-all-25-jewish-house-members-antisemitic-attack-australia,BIPARTISAN STATEMENT FROM ALL 25 JEWISH HOUSE MEMBERS ON ANTISEMITIC ATTACK IN AUSTRALIA,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"All 25 Jewish Members of the US House of Representatives released the following statement in response to an attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia that targeted Jewish people celebrating the first night of Hanukkah:

“On a night meant for celebration, Jewish families in Australia, gathering in joy and peace on the first night of Hanukkah, were grotesquely targeted with hate and murderous intent. Sadly, this attack does not come as a surprise to the Jewish community of Sydney who have been raising a clarion call for local and national authorities to take concrete steps against a rising tide of antisemitism.

“We stand in solidarity with the Australian Jewish community and together extend our condolences to the family and friends of the people murdered and are praying for the complete recovery of the dozens wounded, and the entire Jewish community feeling besieged.

“Antisemitism is a cancer that eats at the core of society, whether in Australia, the United States, or anywhere it is allowed to take root and grow. We join leaders around the globe in condemning this evil act and in calling for justice, peace, and unwavering support for those affected. We also call on all leaders to do better standing up to antisemitism, bigotry, and hate. We must also do better in our work for a world where everyone can celebrate their faith and traditions free from discrimination and fear.

“Jews around the world will continue to gather this week to celebrate Hanukkah and its story of religious freedom and defiant optimism. As we light the menorah each night and remember the miracle of the festival of lights, let us proclaim that light is stronger than darkness, right is stronger than might, and justice is stronger than tyranny. Wishing all Jewish communities and the world around us strength and peace.”

The 25 members who signed the statement include:

Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA)

Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT)

Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR)

Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN)

Rep. Randy Fine (R-FL)

Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL)

Rep. Laura Friedman (D-CA)

Rep. Craig Goldman (R-TX)

Rep. Daniel Goldman (D-NY)

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ)

Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA)

Rep. David Kustoff (R-TN)

Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH)

Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA)

Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-RI)

Rep. Max Miller (R-OH)

Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL)

Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY)

Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD)

Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL)

Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL)

Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA)

Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA)

Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-VA)

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL)

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jackson-urges-gop-leadership-and-secretary-rubioto-halt-trumps,CONGRESSMAN JACKSON URGES GOP LEADERSHIP AND SECRETARY RUBIOTO HALT TRUMP’S RECKLESS “EPSTEIN WAR” AGAINST VENEZUELA,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Jonathan L. Jackson,J000309,jonathanjackson.house.gov,jonathanjackson,https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – With President Trump set to deliver a 9 p.m. address and new Epstein files exposing elite networks of corruption scheduled for release this week, Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01) is calling on House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to prevent any unauthorized U.S. military action against Venezuela.

Jackson, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, attended Secretary Rubio’s confidential closed-door briefing this week. He expressed deep disappointment with Rubio’s lack of candor and specificity, saying the Secretary “failed to identify any imminent threat to U.S. personnel or assets that could justify armed action” and “dodged basic constitutional questions about authority, targeting, and legality.”

Jackson warned that Trump’s escalating “narco-terrorism” rhetoric, reported lethal double-tap strikes in the Caribbean, and threats of a full blockade constitute a dangerous and unconstitutional diversion meant to distract from mounting revelations connected to Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal network, not a legitimate national security effort.

Jackson’s Urgent Demands

Speaker Johnson and Leader Thune: Publicly commit to no new funding and no Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) for operations in Venezuela. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution vests war powers in Congress, and existing 2001 and 2002 AUMFs cover neither Venezuela nor any “narco-terror” claims in the Caribbean. Congress must enforce the War Powers Resolution’s 60-day limit and block any attempt to bypass a formal vote through an “emergency” supplemental.

Secretary Rubio: Certify to Congress today that no blockades or strikes have been authorized against Venezuelan state assets. Release full intelligence on the 80-plus people reportedly killed in recent Caribbean strikes, including target verification, rules of engagement, and civilian casualty assessments. The Pentagon’s own admission of a September “double-tap” strike killing 11 survivors raises serious concerns of potential violations under the Geneva Conventions.

Jackson further called on Trump to directly address the Epstein files and cease using foreign military action to deflect public scrutiny:

“The timing is unmistakable. As documents surface exposing elite complicity in Epstein’s crimes, the administration launches boat strikes and war rhetoric in Latin America. This is not policy , it’s a panic-induced distraction,” Jackson said.

He emphasized that Congress must not allow another executive overreach or “pardons-for-politics” cycle, pointing to reports that the administration has traded clemency for donor favors and political loyalty.

“Donald Trump shut down the government to obstruct the release of the Epstein files, branded them a “hoax,” and pressured members of Congress to prevent a vote on the discharge petition. Now he is saber-rattling toward Venezuela. How many people are expected to die to protect powerful pedophiles from justice?”

Diplomatic Solutions, Not Distractions

“Mike Johnson, John Thune, Marco Rubio , history will not absolve your silence,” Jackson added. “Don’t let this President turn the Caribbean into a battlefield to shield the powerful. If you believe in the Constitution, bring this to Congress before another life is lost.”

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:31:39Z
https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-no-pardon-for-madigan,ILLINOIS CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS URGE NO PARDON FOR MADIGAN,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Illinois’ U.S. House Republican delegation urged President Trump in a letter today to reject former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s request for a presidential pardon. U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12), Darin LaHood (IL-16), and Mary Miller (IL-15) expressed concerns that granting Madigan clemency following his sentencing to seven and a half years in prison for conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery would undermine accountability and public trust.

“We write with a unified message as Republican Members of the United States House of Representatives for the State of Illinois to express our concerns regarding a request for a presidential pardon from former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan,” the members said. “Illinois families and taxpayers have suffered for decades under entrenched corruption, and a pardon in this case would send a dangerous message that public officials can betray the public trust with impunity.

“The bribery and corruption scheme involved the misuse of state resources, including directing public utility contracts and payments to benefit private political allies. This was a deliberate, long-running pattern of abuse of public office.

“Granting clemency in this case would not only reward a lifetime of unethical behavior but also embolden other public officials to exploit their offices for personal gain. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to deny any request for a presidential pardon from Michael Madigan. Denying his request is the best way to ensure Illinois residents know their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity.”

The full letter to President Trump is available here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-garcia-s-statement-condemning-return-of-masked-agents-and-holiday-time-enforcement,Congressman García’s Statement Condemning Return of Masked Agents and Holiday Time Enforcement,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García issued the following statement about a new wave of federal agents arriving to Chicago:

“My office and I are aware that a large group of masked federal agents arrived in our city, once again terrorizing our community.

“At a time when families should be celebrating the holidays in safety and peace, these agents are instead carrying out operations to separate families, sow panic, and intimidate hardworking people. Investigative reporting has made it clear that these ICE raids are targeting individuals with no criminal records.

“These operations are a choice. Masked agents, unannounced raids, and holiday timing are tactics designed to maximize fear. My office will continue to confront these practices and take every step necessary to protect our constituents and hold federal agencies and their leaders accountable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/declaracion-del-congresista-garcia-condenando-el-regreso-de-agentes-enmascarados-y-las-redadas-durante-las-fiestas-navidenas,Declaración del Congresista García Condenando el Regreso de Agentes Enmascarados y las Redadas durante las Fiestas Navideñas,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – El Congresista Jesús “Chuy” García emitió la siguiente declaración sobre la llegada de una nueva oleada de agentes federales a Chicago:

“Mi oficina y yo estamos al tanto de que un numeroso grupo de agentes federales enmascarados ha llegado a nuestra ciudad, aterrorizando una vez más a nuestra comunidad.

“En un momento en que las familias deberían estar celebrando las fiestas con seguridad y tranquilidad, estos agentes están llevando a cabo operaciones para separar familias, sembrar el pánico e intimidar a personas trabajadoras. Las investigaciones periodísticas han dejado claro que estas redadas de ICE están enfocadas en personas sin antecedentes penales.

“Estas operaciones son una decisión deliberada. Los agentes enmascarados, las redadas sin previo aviso y el hecho de que se realicen durante las fiestas navideñas son tácticas diseñadas para maximizar el miedo. Mi oficina continuará enfrentando estas prácticas y tomará todas las medidas necesarias para proteger a nuestros vecinos y exigir responsabilidades a las agencias federales y a sus líderes.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-introduces-payer-state-transparency-act,Foster Introduces Payer State Transparency Act,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) reintroduced the Payer State Transparency Act to help shed light on the “Payer State” problem, wherein certain states, including Illinois, pay more in federal taxes than they get back in federal spending. According to data from the Internal Revenue Service and USASpending.gov, Illinois sent $63 billion more in taxes in FY 2024 to the federal government than we received back.

The Payer State Transparency Act would require the Office of Management and Budget, in conjunction with the Council of Economic Advisors and the Treasury Department, to produce annual assessments of the net economic effect of all federal spending programs on each state and compare these figures against the state’s tax burden.

“As a businessman who co-founded a manufacturing company, I understand the financial burden that federal Payer State policies put on companies that are committed to keeping good jobs in Illinois,” said Foster. “I also recognize the burden the Payer State problem places on middle-class families here in Illinois, taking our hard-earned tax dollars without giving us the same level of federal support in return. That’s why I’ve introduced legislation to help us gain a better understanding of the problem and find ways to make sure Illinois taxpayers are getting their fair share of federal resources.”

This legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), and Jesús ‘Chuy’ García (D-IL).

A copy of the bill can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases/jackson-blasts-removal-wwii-memorials-honoring-black-veterans-backs-cleaver,"Jackson Blasts Removal of WWII Memorials Honoring Black Veterans, Backs Cleaver-Led Push to Restore Displays",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Jonathan L. Jackson,J000309,jonathanjackson.house.gov,jonathanjackson,https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO, IL; Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01) issued the following statement in response to reports that the Trump administration quietly directed the removal of memorial panels honoring African American soldiers at the Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten, following pressure from right-wing activists:

“It is unconscionable that any administration; American or otherwise; would seek to erase the sacrifice of Black soldiers who fought, bled, and died to defend democracy around the world. These men helped defeat fascism abroad while enduring segregation and discrimination at home. To strip their memory from sacred ground is not only disrespectful; it is historical vandalism.”

The removed displays, dedicated in 2024 at the cemetery where more than 8,000 Americans and approximately 172 Black soldiers are buried, told the story of the “Black Liberators of Margraten,” including telephone engineer George H. Pruitt, who died while trying to save a fellow soldier. One panel described how over one million African Americans served in World War II, often confined to support roles and forced to fight both the enemy abroad and entrenched racism within their own military.

Reports indicate that the decision to pull the panels followed complaints from the Heritage Foundation, which accused the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) of violating Trump-era directives targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Local Dutch officials and political parties have condemned the removal as “indecent” and “unacceptable,” underscoring the deep respect in the Netherlands for the Black Liberators of Margraten.

“When the record of our nation grows inconvenient to those who trade in revisionism, they reach for the eraser instead of the truth,” Congressman Jackson said. “This decision dishonors the very freedoms those Black GIs defended. We must never let their stories be buried a second time.”

Congressman Jackson is a proud supporter and signatory of the effort led by Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (MO-05), in which more than 30 Members of Congress have called on ABMC to immediately restore the displays honoring Black servicemembers at Margraten and to explain the circumstances of their removal. The Cleaver-led letter emphasizes that more than one million African Americans served in World War II and that the 172 Black soldiers interred at the Netherlands American Cemetery must be fully and permanently recognized in the visitor center and public interpretation.

“In addition to pursuing my own oversight efforts, I have joined Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II and many of my colleagues in a formal letter demanding that the Black servicemember displays at Margraten be restored without delay,” Jackson stated. “Their letter makes clear that the service and sacrifice of more than a million African American troops, and of the Black Liberators of Margraten in particular, are not optional footnotes; they are central to the history of World War II.”

Congressman Jackson is calling for vigorous oversight, including hearings in the House committees with jurisdiction, to ensure that U.S. historical representations overseas are not manipulated by partisan or ideological pressures. He has expressed support for requiring ABMC to adopt policies that guarantee permanent, prominent recognition of Black servicemembers’ contributions at Margraten and at all American cemeteries and memorials under its care.

“Every American who wears the uniform deserves to be remembered with dignity; regardless of race or rank,” Jackson added. “I stand shoulder to shoulder with Congressman Cleaver and every member of Congress insisting that ABMC restore these displays, commit to permanent recognition of the Black Liberators of Margraten, and ensure that the truth of their service is never again subject to partisan pressure or quiet removal.”

Congressman Jackson, a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, has long advocated for correcting racial disparities in veterans’ benefits and for elevating the stories of Black servicemembers whose heroism was too often ignored upon their return home.

“History is truth in service of justice,” Jackson concluded. “The story of the Black Liberators of Margraten will not be erased; not on my watch and not on behalf of the people I serve.”",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-senator-warner-introduce-bill-help-workers-adapt-ai,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi, Senator Warner Introduce Bill to Help Workers Adapt to AI-Driven Economy",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) and Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the Investing in American Workers Act, legislation to help workers gain the skills they need to succeed as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and rapid technological change reshape the economy. The Investing in American Workers Act would modernize the tax code to encourage employers to invest in workforce training tied to recognized postsecondary credentials, particularly for lower- and moderate-income workers, so employees can adapt to new technologies, transition into emerging roles, and share in the gains of a rapidly evolving economy.

“Businesses across the country are still struggling to find workers with the training needed for today’s jobs, and workers need better access to affordable, employer-supported opportunities to build new skills,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “This legislation expands access to high-quality training programs that help workers move into good, stable careers while strengthening the competitiveness of our businesses and growing the middle class. If we want the United States to remain the world’s economic leader, we must invest in the workers who drive our economy. When people have the skills they need to get ahead, our communities grow stronger and the entire country benefits.”

“As artificial intelligence and automation transform nearly every sector of our economy, the question isn’t whether jobs will change – it’s whether workers will be given a fair shot to keep up. If we want the United States to lead in innovation, we must also lead in preparing workers for the jobs of the future,” Sen. Warner said. “Right now, our tax code rewards companies for investing in machines and software, but not nearly enough for investing in people. This bill applies a proven model, the R&D tax credit, to incentivize employers to offer workforce training, so workers can build new skills, businesses can stay competitive, and the benefits of technological change are more widely shared.”

As AI tools increasingly alter job requirements in sectors from manufacturing and logistics to health care, finance, and professional services, many workers lack access to affordable, employer-supported training. At the same time, businesses often face little incentive to make long-term investments in their employees. While the tax code offers a Research and Development (R&D) tax credit for investments in technology and capital assets, it provides no comparable incentive for workforce training.

The Investing in American Workers Act addresses this gap by:

Establishing a tax credit for employers who increase spending on worker training, equal to 20 percent of increased training expenditures for eligible workers earning $96,000 or less per year.

Incentivizing high-quality, industry-aligned training, including registered apprenticeships, WIOA-certified programs, community college and career and technical education programs, and employer- or labor-sponsored training that leads to recognized postsecondary credentials.

Encouraging participation by small businesses, allowing eligible small employers and tax-exempt entities to apply the credit against payroll taxes through a simplified filing process.

Promoting accountability and transparency, including data collection to ensure training investments are reaching a diverse workforce.

Supporters note that aligning workforce policy with the pace of technological change is critical to maintaining U.S. economic leadership and ensuring that AI-driven productivity gains benefit workers as well as employers.

“The accelerating pace of change in the workplace is reshaping workforce needs and reinforcing the importance of proactive, sustained investment in skills. Workday strongly supports the reintroduction of the Investing in American Workers Act, which recognizes the critical role employers play in helping workers build the agility needed for the future of work. This legislation affirms a powerful truth: reskilling is not an operational burden, but a strategic investment in an organization’s most valuable resource – its people,” said Chandler Morse, Vice President of Public Policy, Workday.

""Workers need access to high-quality skills training, and employers need a workforce with the skills required to meet rapidly changing hiring needs. By incentivizing employer investments in training, including small businesses, this bill helps meet hiring needs while expanding workers’ access to good jobs and strengthening communities more broadly,” said Megan Evans, Senior Government Affairs Manager, National Skills Coalition.

“AI is transforming jobs at unprecedented speed, putting many workers at risk of being left behind unless we act quickly to help them build new, in-demand skills before they exit the labor market. The Investing in American Workers Act offers a smart, scalable solution - modeled on the R&D credit - by incentivizing employers to expand high-quality training that leads to portable credentials and enables workers to advance while staying connected to the workforce.” - Maria Flynn, President & CEO, Jobs for the Future

The legislation has also been endorsed by Jobs for the Future and the American Association of Community Colleges.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-responds-return-masked-federal-immigration-raids-chicago-area,Krishnamoorthi Responds to the Return of Masked Federal Immigration Raids to Chicago-Area Communities,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SCHAUMBURG, IL — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today issued the following statement in response to renewed deployments of masked federal agents conducting surprise immigration raids in Chicago-area neighborhoods during the holiday season:

“My office is actively monitoring and responding to the renewed deployment of masked federal agents in Chicago-area neighborhoods. Conducting surprise raids during the holidays that chase people through our streets, separate families, and target non-criminal residents is not about public safety. It is about fear and intimidation. I will use every oversight and legislative tool available to confront these abuses, defend due process, and hold federal agencies and their leaders accountable.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/illinois-congressional-republicans-urge-trump-to-reject-madigan-pardon-request,Illinois Congressional Republicans Urge Trump to Reject Madigan Pardon Request,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16), Mary Miller (IL-15), and Mike Bost (IL-12) sent a letter to President Trump urging him to reject former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s request for a presidential pardon.

The letter from Illinois’ U.S. House Republican delegation reads in part:

“We write with a unified message as Republican Members of the United States House of Representatives for the State of Illinois to express our concerns regarding a request for a presidential pardon from former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan. Illinois families and taxpayers have suffered for decades under entrenched corruption, and a pardon in this case would send a dangerous message that public officials can betray the public trust with impunity.

“The bribery and corruption scheme involved the misuse of state resources, including directing public utility contracts and payments to benefit private political allies. This was a deliberate, long-running pattern of abuse of public office.

“Granting clemency in this case would not only reward a lifetime of unethical behavior but also embolden other public officials to exploit their offices for personal gain. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to deny any request for a presidential pardon from Michael Madigan. Denying his request is the best way to ensure Illinois residents know their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity.”

The full letter to President Trump can be read here.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-condemns-antisemitic-terrorist-attack-hanukkah-celebration,Krishnamoorthi Condemns Antisemitic Terrorist Attack at Hanukkah Celebration in Sydney,2025-12-14,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SCHAUMBURG, IL — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today released the following statement in response to the deadly shooting attack at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia:

“The antisemitic terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney is a heartbreaking tragedy and a brutal act of hatred and violence. My heart is with the victims, their families, and all those mourning this devastating loss. This attack reflects a dangerous rise in antisemitic violence worldwide, with Jewish communities increasingly targeted for their faith. Antisemitism must be rejected and confronted wherever it appears. We stand in solidarity with the people of Australia and with Jewish communities across the world.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-condemns-antisemitic-anti-indian-and-racist-graffiti-nyu,"Krishnamoorthi Condemns Antisemitic, Anti-Indian, and Racist Graffiti at NYU Library",2025-12-13,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SCHAUMBURG, IL — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi released the following statement after reports of antisemitic, anti-Indian, and racist graffiti, including swastikas, inside NYU’s Bern Dibner Library in Brooklyn:

“The hateful graffiti discovered at NYU’s Bern Dibner Library, including antisemitic symbols and slurs targeting Indian students and other communities, is deeply disturbing and wholly unacceptable. Acts of hatred and intimidation have no place on our campuses or anywhere in our society. This incident must be fully investigated, and we must remain united in confronting antisemitism, anti-Indian hate, racism, and all forms of bigotry so every student can learn and live free from fear.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-ross-veasey-introduce-resolution-ending-trumps-illegal-tariffs,"Krishnamoorthi, Ross, Veasey, Introduce Resolution Ending Trump’s Illegal Tariffs on India",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Deborah Ross (D-NC), and Marc Veasey (D-TX) introduced a resolution to terminate President Donald Trump’s national emergency authorizing tariffs of up to 50 percent on imports from India, helping to restore Congress’s constitutional authority over trade. The resolution follows a bipartisan Senate-passed measure to end Trump’s Brazil tariffs and rein in his abuse of emergency powers to raise duties on imports.

The resolution would terminate the national emergency that President Trump invoked to impose sweeping tariffs on Indian goods under the International Emergency Economics Powers Act (IEEPA) and rescind the additional 25 percent “secondary” duties that took effect on August 27th on top of earlier reciprocal tariffs. Together, these measures raised duties on many Indian-origin products to 50 percent.

“President Trump’s irresponsible tariff strategy toward India is a counterproductive approach that weakens a critical partnership,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “Instead of advancing American interests or security, these duties disrupt supply chains, harm American workers, and drive up costs for consumers. Ending these damaging tariffs will allow the United States to engage with India to advance our shared economic and security needs.”

“North Carolina’s economy is deeply connected to India through trade, investment, and a vibrant Indian American community,” Congresswoman Ross said. “Indian companies have invested over a billion dollars and created thousands of good-paying jobs in our state – especially in the Research Triangle’s life sciences and technology sectors. Meanwhile, North Carolina manufacturers export hundreds of millions of dollars in goods to India each year, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and advanced machinery. When Trump destabilizes this relationship with illegal tariffs, he puts North Carolina jobs, innovation, and our long-term competitiveness at risk.”

“India is an important cultural, economic, and strategic partner and these illegal tariffs are a tax on everyday North Texans who are already struggling with affordability at every level,” Congressman Veasey said.

Representatives Ross, Veasey, and Krishnamoorthi have been leading voices in Congress opposing Trump’s tariff agenda and calling for a reset of U.S.–India relations. In October, they partnered with Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA) and 19 Members of Congress in urging President Trump to repair America’s strained relationship with India and reverse his harmful tariff policies.

Ending Trump’s India tariffs is part of a broader effort by congressional Democrats to reclaim Congress’ constitutional authority over trade and to stop the President from using emergency powers to unilaterally impose his misguided trade policies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/quigley-statement-honor-hanukkah-calls-action-against-antisemitism,"Quigley Statement in Honor of Hanukkah, Calls for Action Against Antisemitism",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in honor of the start of Hanukkah this weekend, and issued a reminder to condemn antisemitism:

“This weekend, Jewish families across Chicago, the country, and the world, are celebrating Hanukkah. The Festival of Lights is a time for reflection and celebration – a time to find gratitude for life’s blessings. As we celebrate the resilience of the Jewish people, we must also recognize the struggles the community continues to face.

“Last year, anti-Jewish hate crimes rose almost 60 percent. Across the city, we have seen racist flyers, synagogue windows smashed, and schools defaced with hate symbols. Though three percent of Chicago’s residents are Jewish, the community makes up almost 40 percent of hate crime victims. The way to fight antisemitism and prejudice here at home is to identify it, speak out against it, and take action. We must work together to make sure every member of our community feels protected. That requires each of us to show up for our neighbors and reject attempts to divide us.

“I am committed to taking steps to fight antisemitism at the federal level. This includes by supporting the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act, which directs the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum to study and report on Holocaust education efforts and the Countering Antisemitism Act, which would take comprehensive action to combat antisemitism in America.

“The story of Hanukkah and the Jewish people is one of trial and triumph, throughout history and in the present day. I wish all of my Jewish friends a Chag Sameach!”

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-takano-blumenthal-lead-52-members-congress-investigation-vas-plan,"Ramirez, Takano, Blumenthal lead 52 Members of Congress in Investigation into VA’s Plan to Create Database of Non-U.S. Citizens",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC —Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Ranking Member of the Veterans’ Affairs Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, and Congressman Mark Takano (CA-39), Ranking Member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, led 52 members of Congress in opening an investigation into VA’s plans to create a database of all non-U.S. citizens employed by or affiliated with the VA. The members are demanding answers from the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) Doug Collins and U.S. Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristi Noem after a spokesperson for the agency confirmed in The Guardian’s report that the data will be shared with immigration enforcement.

“The potential of VA data being used by DHS to advance the mass detention and deportation agenda of the Trump Administration will seed fear in noncitizens who perform duties in service to our nation's veterans. This database is yet another obvious attempt by the Trump Administration to stifle political dissent and suppress free speech through baseless threats to immigrants,” wrote the lawmakers.

The letter follows a leaked memo revealing that the VA would share the collected data for immigration enforcement purposes. Lawmakers emphasized the damaging consequences the database could have on VA care and benefits.

“VA’s approach comes at a time when nationwide healthcare provider shortages are limiting access to care for all Americans, including veterans. Further, VA’s approach also risks serious diplomatic consequences for countries where veterans reside and receive VA care and benefits. Worst of all, the proposed data collection could lead to the unlawful imprisonment or deportation of veterans who served our country and continued their service at VA, but were denied U.S. citizenship following their military service,” the lawmakers continued.

VA employs more than 450,000 people and thousands of contractors who provide critical services to veterans, including health care, rehabilitation, and financial services. The letter raises concerns that the database would lead to more illegal detention and deportation of veterans and those who are improving veterans’ lives, to push the Trump Administration’s harmful immigration policies.

“For the past year, the Trump Administration has shown a complete disregard for individuals’ immigration statuses, including those of veterans; haphazardly and illegally detaining Dreamers, immigrants with valid work permits, visas, and even U.S. citizens. We are concerned the database of all non-U.S. citizens employed by or affiliated with VA will lead to more illegal detentions and deportations of individuals who dedicate themselves to improving veterans' lives,” concluded the lawmakers.

The letter was signed by Senator Tammy Duckworth and Representatives Yassamin Ansari, Becca Balint, Donald Beyer, Julia Brownley, André Carson, Troy Carter, Greg Casar, Joaquin Castro, Judy Chu, Gilbert Cisneros, Herbert Conaway, Diana DeGette, Christopher Deluzio, Markn DeSaulnier, Maxine Dexter, Lloyd Doggett, Veronica Escobar, Robert Garcia, Sylvia Garcia, Daniel Goldman, Al Green, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Henry Johnson, Timothy Kennedy, RajaKrishnamoorthi, Summer Lee, Ted Lieu, Sarah McBride, Morgan McGarvey, Kelly Morrison, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Norton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Frank Pallone, Nellie Pou, Jamie Raskin, Janice Schakowsky, Terri Sewell, Lateefah Simon, Adam Smith, Melanie Stansbury, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, Norma Torres, Lauren Underwood, Juan Vargas, Nydia Velázquez, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Federica Wilson.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-announces-new-office-location-dekalb-illinois,"Underwood Announces New Office Location in DeKalb, Illinois",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"DEKALB – Today, Representative Lauren Underwood announced a new office location at 2179 Sycamore Road, #107, DeKalb, Illinois. The office officially opens to the public on Friday, December 12. To celebrate the office’s opening, Underwood will be hosting an Open House for constituents at the DeKalb office in January 2026.

“Remaining accessible and listening to the 14th District has always been a top priority, and I’m thrilled to be opening a new community space in DeKalb,” said Underwood. “I invite everyone in our community to visit our new space to learn more about the support and resources my office offers and our work on their behalf.”

Information on Underwood’s office locations can be found below and on her website at http://underwood.house.gov/. Underwood and her staff are available for in-person and virtual appointments in her Washington, D.C., DeKalb, and Joliet offices; constituents can call 630-549-2190 and staff will determine whether an appointment is necessary to resolve their issue. District offices are open Monday – Friday from 9am-5pm CT.

DeKalb, Illinois Office

2179 Sycamore Road, #107

DeKalb, IL 60115

116 N. Chicago Street, Suite 201

Joliet, IL 60432

Phone: (630) 549-2190

2228 Rayburn House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Phone: (202) 225-2976

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-statement-on-impeachment-vote,Casten Statement on Impeachment Vote,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (December 11, 2025) — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten released the following statement regarding today’s vote on a motion to table articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump:

“Donald Trump should not be president. He has been impeached twice, and the only reason he is president today is because the Senate failed to uphold its duty and convict him after inciting a violent insurrection in an attempt to overthrow American democracy.

“Donald Trump has committed innumerable impeachable offenses in his second term. His administration is rife with lawless actions that meet the bar of high crimes and misdemeanors. He should be removed from office, and I by no means condone Republican arguments to the contrary.

“But to support an impeachment resolution today would be to put the Senate in a position to once again ignore its duty. It would allow Speaker Johnson to appoint Republican impeachment managers who would turn his Senate trial into an embarrassment to our country. The next attempt to impeach the president must be done only once Congress has taken the necessary steps to secure removal. That is the way forward.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-speaks-support-bill-restore-collective-bargaining,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Speaks in Support of Bill to Restore Collective Bargaining to Federal Workers Before House Passage,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives before passage of the bipartisan Protect America’s Workforce Act. During his remarks, the congressman praised the legislation for restoring collective bargaining rights for certain federal workers, 67 percent of whom had that right stripped from them by an executive order signed by President Trump earlier this year. Congressman Krishnamoorthi emphasized that the right to collective bargaining also protects workers from having to take forced “loyalty pledges” by a president or their political party.

“Removing their limited bargaining rights doesn’t improve efficiency; it threatens the integrity of our civil service,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said on the floor. “These rights exist for one essential reason: to shield federal employees from political pressure so they serve the American people, not the agenda of any one President or political party.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-demands-answers-ice-hazardous-chemical-agents-deployed-elgin,Krishnamoorthi Demands Answers From ICE On Hazardous Chemical Agents Deployed in Elgin And Pattern Of Chemical Use Near Illinois Families,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi is demanding immediate accountability from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following reports that ICE personnel deployed hazardous chemical agents, including tear gas, and a flash-bang grenade during a December 6 enforcement operation in a residential Elgin neighborhood that sent multiple residents for medical evaluation. In a letter to Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, Krishnamoorthi warns that the release of hazardous chemical agents near homes, children, elderly residents, and individuals with respiratory conditions “raises serious concerns about public safety and the safeguards ICE employs to prevent unintended civilian exposure.”

He notes that DHS’s own 2023 Use of Force Policy requires all officers to follow constitutional standards, yet ICE’s publicly available guidance “does not detail specific procedures for the deployment of chemical irritants in residential settings” despite the clear risk such deployments pose in densely populated areas.

Krishnamoorthi also underscores that the Elgin incident is not isolated, writing that it “appears to be part of a broader pattern of ICE’s use of chemical irritants during enforcement operations, including those conducted under Operation Midway Blitz.” His letter details recent deployments in Chicago neighborhoods, including Old Irving Park and Albany Park, near Funston Elementary School, and at a shopping center where “a toddler should never have to know what a tear-gas canister looks like.”

The Congressman states:

“Incidents like these, and now the one in Elgin, underscore the urgent need for oversight to ensure that federal enforcement actions do not endanger the safety or trust of the communities they are meant to serve.”

To determine whether ICE followed proper safeguards and to ensure future operations do not put families at risk, Krishnamoorthi is demanding answers by December 24, 2025 to the following questions:

What public-safety protocols and risk-assessment procedures were followed before chemical irritants were deployed in this residential neighborhood, and what criteria guide these decisions when bystanders may be present?

What specific steps did ICE personnel take before, during, and after deployment to limit the risk of exposure to nearby residents, including families in surrounding homes and individuals on adjacent streets?

How does ICE evaluate environmental and public health risks prior to using chemical agents, particularly in densely populated areas where vulnerable individuals may be present?

What coordination occurred with local police, fire departments, EMS personnel, or public-health authorities before or after the deployment of chemical irritants? Please describe any notifications, joint planning, or post-incident communication.

What follow-up procedures does ICE implement after deploying chemical agents?",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-votes-no-defense-bill-citing-lack-oversight-politicization,"Krishnamoorthi Votes No on Defense Bill Citing Lack of Oversight, Politicization of the Pentagon, and Harmful Policy Riders",2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi today released the following statement explaining his vote against final passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), citing the bill’s failure to impose necessary oversight and guardrails on the Trump Administration despite including several bipartisan provisions he advanced to strengthen U.S. competitiveness and national security:

“Tonight, I voted to oppose the National Defense Authorization Act. While I am glad that many provisions I advanced to strengthen our competitiveness against the economic and security threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party were included, the final bill failed to provide the oversight and guardrails of the Trump Administration that our national security demands. In the face of this Administration’s escalating military actions in the Caribbean, the use of National Guard forces in our communities, and the dangerous politicization of the Pentagon, Congress cannot look the other way. The bill offers no real constraints on unilateral boat strikes, no checks on Secretary Hegseth’s politicization efforts, and folds in culture-war measures that could undermine servicemembers’ access to essential health care, including IVF treatment . I am also disappointed that language restoring collective-bargaining rights for civilian DOD employees was also removed. For these reasons, I voted no.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-ramirez-takes-first-step-towards-impeachment-dhs-secretary-noem,Congresswoman Ramirez Takes First Step Towards Impeachment of DHS Secretary Noem,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC— Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) requested that the House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan and Ranking Member Jamie Raskin conduct a complete investigation into the Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's unlawful and potentially impeachable actions.

“Secretary Noem, you have misused resources appropriated by Congress and engaged in unethical behavior. You have repeatedly made false and misleading statements to Congress and to the press. And you have undermined the separation of powers and disregarded the role of Congress and the Courts. Bottom line: you LIE, act with impunity, reject checks and balances, and ignore Congress and the Courts,” said Ramirez during the hearing. “Your options are limited. You either resign, Trump fires you, or you will be impeached.”

“I urge you to reconsider resignation, because I have taken the first step towards your impeachment, and called on the Judiciary Committee to open an investigation into your lawlessness,” added Ramirez, who was the first member of Congress to demand Secretary Noem's resignation, back in April, and personally handed the letter to Noem on May 14.

For the full request, CLICK HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://bost.house.gov/2025/12/bost-votes-to-strengthen-national-security-bolster-support-for-troops,"BOST VOTES TO STRENGTHEN NATIONAL SECURITY, BOLSTER SUPPORT FOR TROOPS",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Mike Bost,B001295,bost.house.gov,bost,https://bost.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, legislation that strengthens America’s national defense, advances President Trump’s peace through strength agenda, and supports the men and women who serve our nation in uniform. The bill authorizes $900.6 billion for national defense programs, provides a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers, allocates $6 million for Scott Air Force Base hangar improvements, secures our southern border, and ends the woke policies and DEI mandates that have distracted from military readiness.

“Supporting our troops and keeping America safe must always come before politics,” said Bost. “This national defense funding backs President Trump’s peace through strength approach, secures the southern border, reins in wasteful spending, and gets rid of the DEI and woke policies that have no place in our military. It ensures our servicemembers have the resources they need to do their jobs and I’m proud to support legislation that puts our national defense and our troops first.”

.

The Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA includes:

.

- $900.6 billion for national defense programs

- 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers

- $6 million for Scott Air Force Base hangar improvements

- Over $1 billion to combat drug trafficking and support border security operations

- Fully funds National Guard and active-duty deployments to assist Border Patrol at the southwest border

- Permanently repeals of all Department of War DEI offices, programs, and training

.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-sessions-introduce-bipartisan-bill-requiring-government-agencies-label,"Foster, Sessions Introduce Bipartisan Bill Requiring Government Agencies to Label Content Generated with Artificial Intelligence",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Today, U.S. Congressmen Bill Foster (D-IL) and Pete Sessions (R-TX) introduced the Responsible and Ethical AI Labeling (REAL) Act, a bipartisan piece of legislation that would require federal agencies and officers to clearly label any content published via official government channels that is generated or manipulated using generative artificial intelligence. Specifically, the bill would require labeling on any AI-generated images or videos published by an agency, or any AI-generated text that is not reviewed by a human prior to publication.

“In an age of disinformation, Americans should be able to trust that information coming from official government sources is legitimate and based in reality. With the rapid proliferation of AI-generated content, there must be clear guidelines to ensure those at our federal agencies and in our nation’s highest office are not using AI in a way that could purposefully or inadvertently mislead the American public,” said Congressman Foster.

""I’m proud to Co-lead the REAL Act, which brings greater transparency and accountability to the federal government’s use of artificial intelligence. Our bill requires federal agencies and officials to clearly disclose when text, images, audio, or video shared with the public in their official capacity has been generated or manipulated using AI. This legislation protects agencies’ ability to use AI internally while ensuring that anything released publicly is clearly and consistently labeled. It is a commonsense step to maintain trust and strengthen transparency in government communications,” said Congressman Sessions.

A copy of the bill can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-uses-oversight-hearing-press-colleagues-extend-aca,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Uses Oversight Hearing to Press Colleagues to Extend ACA Tax Credits and Protect Illinois Families from Rising Costs,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — During today’s joint Oversight Committee hearing on lowering health care costs, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Oversight Subcommittee on Health Care and Financial Services, pressed his colleagues to take immediate action to prevent steep premium hikes for Illinois families and to block deep Medicaid and ACA cuts that would destabilize hospitals across the state.

First, Congressman Krishnamoorthi warned that allowing the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits to expire at the end of the year would create an immediate affordability crisis. Without action, half a million Illinoisans will see sharp premium increases, with rural families facing hikes of more than 100 percent.

“If we don’t extend these tax credits, in Illinois alone half a million people will see their premiums go from $260 a month to $464 a month—an almost 80 percent increase. Rural families will be hit even harder, with premiums rising by more than 100 percent. People will not stop needing medical care. Safety-net and rural hospitals will pay the price, and communities will be pushed into health care deserts unless we act.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi also highlighted the separate, longer-term threat posed by the Republican so-called “Big Beautiful Bill,” which contains sweeping Medicaid and ACA cuts. Drawing on his visits to Loretto Hospital in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood and Franklin Hospital in Benton, he noted that hospital leaders warned the cuts would force program reductions, staff layoffs, and potential service shutdowns. With eleven Illinois hospitals already at risk of closure, these cuts would accelerate an emerging statewide crisis.

Finally, Congressman Krishnamoorthi underscored the human stakes of failing to extend the ACA tax credits by sharing the story of Krystle, a mother from central Illinois whose three medically complex children rely on ACA subsidies to access care.

“With the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits, she can buy coverage for her three children at $800 a month. If we let those credits expire, her premiums will nearly double to $1,400 a month, trapping her in a coverage gap. The only alternative would be leaving her job just so her kids can get health coverage. No parent should ever face that choice.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi urged Congress to move quickly to extend the ACA tax credits and reject cuts that would shutter hospitals and deepen health care deserts. He emphasized that both challenges are preventable, and that decisive bipartisan action is needed to protect Illinois families from higher costs and reduced access to care.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-supports-fy26-national-defense-authorization-act,LaHood Supports FY26 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), to fund and support our military, their families, and key national security priorities.

""The FY2026 NDAA strengthens our national security, gives the men and women serving our nation the resources they need, and enhances our ability to counter the malign actions of bad actors around the globe,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""With ever-evolving threats and foreign adversaries working every day to undermine the United States, this bill makes certain our military and intelligence community are equipped with the tools they need to handle any threat. I was proud to vote for this bill and I will continue to support the brave servicemembers who safeguard our freedoms.""

Background:

The bill codifies 15 of President Trump's Executive Orders focused on strengthening our military and authorizes $900 billion for national defense to provide our troops with the tools and resources they need to remain the world's premier fighting force. It includes provisions to counter the hostile actions of our adversaries, invest in cutting edge technology to ensure military preparedness, and improve the quality of life for our servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise and improved benefits for military families.

The NDAA also includes the Fiscal Year 2026 Intelligence Authorization Act, which authorizes funds to support our Intelligence Community, broaden Congressional oversight, protect the U.S. from counterintelligence threats, and expedites the Intelligence Community’s adoption and implementation of emerging technologies.

Rep. LaHood's Priorities included the FY2026 NDAA:

Advanced AI Security Readiness Act

Requires the Director of the National Security Agency to develop guidance to protect artificial intelligence (AI) technology from adversaries by engaging with AI developers and leveraging industry expertise to address vulnerabilities and threats.

The BIOSECURE Act

Prevents U.S. federal funds from supporting biotechnology companies tied to foreign adversaries.

The Outbound Investment Transparency Act

Creates targeted restrictions for outbound U.S. investments that would fund military and advanced technology capabilities of foreign adversaries.

Congressman LaHood also supported provisions to authorize local, state, and federal agencies, including the DHS and DOJ, with new authority to take counter-drone measures for large scale public gatherings or events, critical infrastructure, and correctional facilities.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-durbin-introduce-legislation-improve-medical-device-recall-process,"Schakowsky, Durbin Introduce Legislation to Improve the Medical Device Recall Process",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) reintroduced legislation to improve the medical device recall process in order to protect patients. The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish an electronic format for medical device recall notifications to streamline communication between device manufacturers, FDA, hospitals, and health care professionals. It also would require manufacturers to include in recall notices information about how the recall could affect patients with medical devices and instruct hospitals and health care professionals to provide that information to patients. The legislation was inspired by Illinois constituents who had shared their personal stories about medical harms and other concerns related to recalled devices.

“Americans deserve to know that the medical devices they depend on for their health and wellbeing are safe and effective,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “That’s why I’m proud to work with Senator Dick Durbin on the Medical Device Recall Improvement Act. Our bill ensures that all medical device recall information is sent to the Food and Drug Administration electronically, rather than through physical mail, so providers and patients can receive critical updates faster. With more than 1,000 recalls issued each year affecting millions of devices, timely communication saves lives. This important legislation makes sure patients get the information they need when they need it.”

“Millions of Americans rely on a medical device to stay healthy. But if their medical device is recalled, patients have the right to know as soon as possible so that they can understand the risks and consult with their health care provider,” said Senator Dick Durbin. “The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act is an obvious solution to ensure that medical device manufacturers, FDA, and health providers can quickly share up-to-date information with patients.”

Specifically, the Medical Device Recall Improvement Act would:

Require FDA to establish an electronic format for medical device recall notifications;

Require medical device manufacturers to use the electronic format to contact FDA and hospitals and health providers; and

Require medical device manufacturers to include information in recall notifications about the risks of the recalled device, and instruct hospitals and health providers to distribute the information to patients.

FDA oversees the regulation of almost 200,000 medical devices in the U.S., from contact lenses and contraceptive devices to prosthetics and pacemakers. According to the American Medical Association, more than 32 million Americans have an implanted medical device, and countless others use them throughout their lives. These devices improve and save lives. However, medical devices that are recalled for safety issues or manufacturing defects can cause severe harm to patients.

Medical device manufacturers communicate recall information to FDA and health care professionals through letter and email. This extends the amount of time it takes FDA to review recall information, determine a recall classification, and communicate the recall to the public. It also extends the amount of time it takes hospital coordinators to track and pull recalled medical devices from inventories. As a result, patients are often the last informed about a recall—if ever. According to Consumer Reports, most Americans are not aware of recalls for their products, including medical devices.

The Medical Device Recall Improvement Act has earned endorsements from Public Citizen; National Center for Health Research; Device Events; and UCSF Team for High Value Care.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-statement-vote-against-fy26-ndaa,Schakowsky Statement on Vote Against FY26 NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky released the following statement after voting against final passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (FY26 NDAA):

""Today, I once again voted against passage of the Republican’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). While I support several important components of this legislation, I could not in good conscience vote for the bill in its entirety. The FY26 NDAA authorizes over $890 billion in additional Pentagon spending. That is $8 billion more than the Pentagon itself said it needed. Our greatest security threats have no military solutions, and it is time our budget reflects that. We must instead make the investments in health care, education, housing, clean air and water, and public transit that Americans deserve.

“Further, this legislation removed House-passed provisions that would lead to In vitro fertilization (IVF) coverage under TRICARE and restore collective bargaining rights to civilian employees. I was also discouraged to see that the bill still discriminates against the transgender community. With this year’s illegal military strikes against innocent boats in the Caribbean, the last thing we need to do is give the Pentagon even more power.

""Although I opposed this bill, there were several bright spots, including a 3.8% pay raise for all service members, the repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF), and a new requirement for military personnel to display the name of the military service they are affiliated with when supporting civilian law enforcement activities in our communities.

""Despite these important provisions, this legislation exacerbates an already over-bloated Pentagon budget and funds several defense policies which will not make people any safer. This is why I could not support its final passage.""

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-bipartisan-legislation-halt-counterfeit-imports-advances-us-house,SCHNEIDER BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO HALT COUNTERFEIT IMPORTS ADVANCES IN US HOUSE,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — The House Ways and Means Committee today advanced bipartisan legislation authored by Reps. Brad Schneider (IL-10) and Blake Moore (UT-01) to halt counterfeit and pirated imports into the United States. The bill, H.R. 4930, changes how Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can share the packing and shipping information of suspected counterfeit products with key intellectual property rights holders, transportation carriers, and e-commerce platforms. This unanimously bill passed the Ways and Means Committee.

“Counterfeit goods undercut American businesses, threaten jobs, and endanger public safety,” said Rep. Schneider. “We need to help CBP disrupt counterfeit trafficking networks and better safeguard our economy and communities. I’m proud that this commonsense legislation – co-authored by my colleague Rep. Blake Moore – has received bipartisan and unanimous support in the Ways and Means Committee. I urge the Speaker to bring it to the floor for a vote.”

“The global economy is flush with threats from counterfeiters, IP thieves, and black-market traders,"" said Rep. Moore ""This bill will unlock real-time intelligence sharing between CBP and the private sector that will help shut down these networks and cut off the flow of counterfeit products before they reach American shores. This will safeguard American businesses and protect our citizens from dangerous counterfeit goods. I’m thrilled that this bill has generated strong bipartisan support and unanimously passed through the Ways and Means Committee today.""

Background:

While CBP’s job is to identify counterfeit products at U.S. ports of entry and flag for businesses when they suspect a particular shipment might be counterfeit or pirated, they are currently only allowed to provide limited information about shipments in question. CBP is not permitted to share packing materials (such as the external container in which goods are shipped), images, labels, invoices, or packing slips that identify the product’s country of origin, with key parties such as property rights holders, carriers like DHL, UPS, or FedEx, and e-commerce platforms like Etsy and Amazon.

This bill would provide explicit authority for CBP to share all relevant information with companies, carriers, and platforms where a shipment in question contains suspected counterfeit or pirated products. The bill also broadens the range of parties with whom CBP can disclose such information, including shipping companies and e-commerce sites where the product in question may be sold.

Under this bill, CBP would be allowed to share:

Shipping labels and tracking numbers

Sender and recipient addresses

Invoices and manifests

Outer packaging images, like courier tape, weight notations, and box markings

Container-level packaging information and data

This means CBP could flag patterns of behaviors such as:

Repeat senders across multiple shipments

“Drop addresses” used by organized counterfeiters

Common entry ports or air routes

Example: A counterfeit electronics shipment from Shenzhen repeatedly enters via the Port of Los Angeles, using the same fake return address and tracking patterns. With this bill, CBP can share these patterns with carriers like UPS, DHL, and FedEx to intercept future parcels earlier in the pipeline.

The Moore-Schneider bill is supported by the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, Alliance for Safe Online Pharmacies, American Apparel & Footwear Association, Automotive Anti-Counterfeiting Council, Baby Safety Alliance, International AntiCounterfeiting Coalition, International Trademark Association, Partnership for Safe Medicines, Pharmaceutical Security Institute, and Transnational Alliance to Combat Illicit Trade.

You can read the full bill here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://sorensen.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-defense-bill-sorensen-highlights-wins-rock-island-arsenal-and-il,"House Passes Defense Bill, Sorensen Highlights Wins for Rock Island Arsenal and IL-17",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Eric Sorensen,S001225,sorensen.house.gov,sorensen,https://sorensen.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is proud to announce major victories for the Rock Island Arsenal and communities across Illinois’ 17th Congressional District in this year’s national defense legislation, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Congressman Sorensen voted to support the defense bill after securing critical provisions to protect jobs at the Rock Island Arsenal, support the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria, and strengthen Central and Northwestern Illinois.

“We must do everything we can to put our servicemembers and military families first. These investments give our neighbors the support they deserve and help safeguard the jobs that drive our local economy,” said Congressman Sorensen. “Improving childcare, protecting the C-130 fleet and investing in the Arsenal all deliver meaningful results for Central and Northwestern Illinois.”

Earlier this summer, Sorensen announced a series of major IL-17 victories included in the House-passed NDAA. Those provisions strengthen the Arsenal, support working families, and reinforce our national security.

Key wins for IL-17 and the Rock Island Arsenal include:

Congressman Sorensen’s Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act, which incentivizes private industry to partner with arsenals by giving preference to public-private partnerships in Army contracting, creating a more predictable, sustained workload to protect and create jobs.

The bill bans the Army’s funding to restructure the Rock Island Arsenal’s Army Sustainment Command (ASC) and Joint Munitions Command (JMC), until they provide a plan that includes a timeline and information about any job cuts and the impact to our readiness.

Authorizes $50 million for the Rock Island Arsenal’s Child Development Center to consolidate the existing facilities and make upgrades to meet DoD guidelines and safety requirements, ensuring that eligible families at the Rock Island Arsenal have a safe, modern facility for childcare.

Authorizes $5 million in design funding for a forging equipment annex at the Rock Island Arsenal’s Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center to support a wide array of weapon systems across all of the services.

The Army will be required to provide more information about upcoming changes tied to its Army Transformation Initiative—ensuring communities like those around the Rock Island Arsenal are informed and prepared.

To protect the civilian workforce, the bill requires DoD to justify major reductions in force by considering readiness, effectiveness, and fully burdened costs and notify Congress.

The Department of Defense is directed to explore public-private partnerships at arsenals and other key military industrial sites, opening the door to local innovation and economic growth.

An extension of the Army’s online real estate tool pilot program that the Rock Island Arsenal participates in.

The bill ensures the Air Force maintains at least 271 C-130 aircraft and prohibits the reduction of C-130 aircraft assigned to the Air National Guard, preserving critical operations tied to the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria.

Big wins that benefit our servicemembers and national security include:

3.8% pay raises for all military personnel.

Authorizes funding for new and improved barracks, dormitories, child development centers, and family housing.

Requires any troop deployed in the U.S. to clearly identify their service branch.

Repeals the 1991 and 2002 Iraq and Gulf War Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs).

Reauthorizes the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) and extends a limitation on recognizing Russian sovereignty over any part of Ukraine.

Authorizes funding for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative and the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative.

While Congressman Sorensen voted in support of the NDAA, he strongly opposes the inclusion of the provision that discriminates against LGBTQ+ servicemembers at the military service academies and Republican leadership’s decision to remove protections for collective bargaining. Congressman Sorensen will keep working to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and union workers on the Armed Services Committee.

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-sorensen-applaud-passage-of-legislation-to-rename-rockford-post-office-in-honor-of-jay-larson,"LaHood, Sorensen Applaud Passage of Legislation to Rename Rockford Post Office in Honor of Jay Larson",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation led by Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) to dedicate the Harrison Avenue Post Office in Rockford in honor of fallen letter carrier Jay Larson.

""Over his 25 years as a letter carrier, Jay Larson exemplified the best of our Midwestern values and fully embraced his role as a public servant,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""His work ethic and compassion for others during his time with the United States Postal Service were unmatched. I was proud to co-lead this legislation to rename the Harrison Avenue Post Office with Representative Sorensen to cement Jay's legacy and honor the positive impact he made on the Rockford community. I am grateful to my colleagues in the House of Representatives for supporting this legislation and I look forward to it being signed into law.""

“Jay Larson remains missed by his neighbors who remember his warm smile and welcoming face as he delivered mail for more than 25 years,” said Rep. Sorensen. “We’re now another step closer to permanently honoring his life, legacy, and years of admirable service to the Rockford community.”

Background:

Jay Larson tragically lost his life during a stabbing attack in March of 2024 while delivering mail along his route. Larson served the Rockford community as a letter carrier for the Harrison Avenue Post Office for 25 years.

Congressmen LaHood and Sorensen originally introduced this legislation in the 118th Congress. They reintroduced the legislation on March 27th, 2025 during the 119th Congress to honor the one year mark of Jay Larson's passing.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-demands-accountability-secretary-noem-concerning-lack-food,Rep. Kelly demands accountability from Secretary Noem concerning lack of food in ICE facilities,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"CHICAGO – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) led 28 Members of Congress in demanding answers from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem concerning reports of poor-quality food – and in some cases, lack of food and water – provided to immigrants held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcements facilities. Immigration advocates and people who have been detained said they have even gotten sick from spoiled food, experienced hunger, and was given moldy food.

These are not the first reports of poor-quality food and hunger in ICE detention facilities. A Government Accountability Office report released in May 2025 noted more than 500 deficiencies related to food service.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-castor-and-matsui-demand-answers-meta-ahead-energy-commerce,"Schakowsky, Castor, and Matsui Demand Answers from Meta Ahead of Energy & Commerce Subcommittee Markup, Citing Egregious User Privacy Violations",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Full Text of Letter (PDF)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Kathy Castor (FL-14), and Doris Matsui (CA-07) are demanding answers from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg regarding the company’s covert use of an Android loophole to track users across the internet, regardless of their explicit privacy choices. The letter comes ahead of this Thursday’s markup in the Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Subcommittee of the Energy & Commerce Committee and underscores the urgent need for Congress to rein in Big Tech’s repeated abuses of Americans’ privacy.

The lawmakers are highlighting newly published research showing that Meta exploited developer-only Android features to dismantle core privacy protections and secretly monitor users’ web activity. They warn that Meta continued this practice even when users took every available step to protect their personal information online.

“Unbeknownst to Meta’s users, Meta’s new tracking method followed them across the web even if the user tried to keep their browsing private,” wrote the lawmakers. “Even users who had chosen every available safeguard—opting out of cookies, using a VPN, or enabling incognito mode—were still tracked against their will, as Meta continued to listen through these hidden channels.”

The Members stress that this conduct reflects a sustained pattern of Meta disregarding user privacy.

“This persistent pattern demonstrates that the Meta’s covert tracking we address today is part of a broader corporate strategy, not an isolated lapse,” concluded the lawmakers.

The Members are seeking detailed answers about how Meta used this hidden tracking method, what data was collected, and whether the company will permanently delete all information obtained through the exploit.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-calls-removal-ben-gvir-israels-security-minister,SCHNEIDER CALLS FOR REMOVAL OF BEN GVIR AS ISRAEL’S SECURITY MINISTER,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLNSHIRE -- Following the release of a Public Defender audit that found widespread torture and abuse of Palestinians in Israeli prisons, Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-chair of the Abraham Accords Caucus, condemns conditions cited in the report and calls for the removal of Itamar Ben Gvir as Israel’s National Security Minister:

“Israel’s Public Defender’s audit of the country’s prison system documents widespread hunger, untreated medical conditions, extreme overcrowding, and repeated violence against detainees in Israeli detention facilities. These findings are based on direct inspections conducted over two years across dozens of sites and describe conditions that fall well below Israel’s legal standards.

The conditions reported are unacceptable for any government and under any circumstances, but especially for a vital U.S. ally that has historically held itself to higher moral standards.

“The October 7th invasion by Hamas, and the multi-front war that followed, placed extraordinary demands on the system, but the root of the problems rest clearly with the leadership, specifically Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir. Prison conditions deteriorated sharply under emergency authorities and sustained political direction that removed normal restraints on the system. Oversight mechanisms failed to halt that deterioration. That came as Ben Gvir publicly endorsed harsher treatment of detainees and treated the degradation of prison conditions as an achievement.

“Ben Gvir's conduct as National Security Minister has long been detrimental to Israel’s national interests and its international standing. He should never have been given authority over the prison system in the first place, and, given the findings in this audit, he should be removed from office immediately.

“The US-Israel relationship is based on shared values and shared interests. This audit is an official warning from within Israel’s own legal system. Failure to act on it threatens to undermine our nations’ bilateral relationship and Israel’s long-term security.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-slams-dangerous-change-child-vaccine-schedule,SCHNEIDER SLAMS DANGEROUS CHANGE TO CHILD VACCINE SCHEDULE,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LINCOLNSHIRE, IL – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), Chair of the New Democrat Coalition and a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement in response to a vote by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to end the decades-long recommendation that all newborns be immunized at birth against hepatitis B:

“To be clear, today’s stunning, uninformed, and misguided ACIP decision was driven by politics and conspiracy theories, not medical science. It puts our children at risk, and it will have dire consequences for years to come. For more than three decades, the hepatitis B vaccine given at birth has protected countless newborns from a dangerous, lifelong disease. That safeguard is now being dismantled.

“The responsibility for this lies squarely with pusillanimous Senate Republicans who allowed Donald Trump to install a conspiracy theorist, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., to run the Department of Health and Human Services. Under his leadership, a once-respected committee that relied on science to guide immunization recommendations has now been stacked with dunderheaded anti-vaccine activists driven by ideology instead of science-backed evidence.

“Conspiracy-riddled ideology should be nowhere near vaccine guidance. Congress has a responsibility to act. We must advance legislation that restores scientific integrity to vaccine policymaking and prevents ideological interference in decisions that impact children’s health.”

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jonathan-l-jackson-trumps-12-billion-farm-aid-band-aid-his-own,Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson: Trump’s $12 Billion Farm Aid Is a Band-Aid for His Own Trade Disaster,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Jonathan L. Jackson,J000309,jonathanjackson.house.gov,jonathanjackson,https://jonathanjackson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 8, 2025

Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson: Trump’s $12 Billion Farm Aid Is a Band-Aid for His Own Trade Disaster

Chicago, IL — Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), a member of the House Agriculture Committee, issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s new $12 billion aid package for farmers:

“President Trump is trying to paper over a crisis of his own making. His chaotic trade war and tariff policies have driven down prices, destabilized export markets, and left Illinois corn and soybean farmers holding the bag. A one-time $12 billion payout is not a strategy; it is a band-aid meant to cover up years of damage.”

Illinois’ agriculture export economy is central to the state’s prosperity, with corn and soybeans as cornerstone crops. Retaliatory tariffs and trade uncertainty have pushed soybean prices toward or below break-even levels and eroded key markets that Illinois farmers spent decades building, particularly in China and Mexico. These market losses come on top of rising input costs for machinery, fertilizer, and fuel, squeezing already thin margins for family farmers. “Farmers do not want to be used as pawns in a trade war,” Jackson continued.

“They want stable markets, predictable policy, and a level playing field. This bailout does nothing to restore lost export relationships or protect rural communities from long-term decline. Once Brazil and Argentina capture those markets, it can take years to win them back, if ever. “Congressman Jackson is calling for de-escalation of trade conflicts, restoration and expansion of market access, and a durable farm safety net that supports producers without forcing them into crisis dependence on ad hoc bailouts.",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-demands-accountability-after-ice-operation-elgin-ends-crash-and,Krishnamoorthi Demands Accountability After ICE Operation in Elgin Ends in Crash and Sends Residents for Medical Treatment from Chemical Exposure,2025-12-07,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ELGIN, IL — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement on reports that an ICE operation yesterday in Elgin, within his district, resulted in a vehicle crash and the deployment of chemical irritants that exposed nearby residents — including at least one young child — to harmful agents:

“I am outraged that a brazen ICE operation in Elgin resulted in a car crash and the deployment of chemical irritants that left multiple people needing medical treatment. Spraying tear gas in a residential neighborhood is an unacceptable danger to the community, no matter the circumstances. ICE and DHS must immediately explain how this operation was carried out, why chemical agents were used, and what accountability will follow.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://davis.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-danny-k-davis-recognized-most-effective-democratic-house-member,Congressman Danny K. Davis Recognized as the Most Effective Democratic House Member on Welfare Policy by the Center for Effective Lawmaking,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Danny K. Davis,D000096,davis.house.gov,davis,https://davis.house.gov/media,scraper,"Chicago, Il — Congressman Danny K. Davis (IL-07) has been named the most effective Democratic lawmaker in the U.S. House of Representatives on Welfare policy for the 118th Congress, according to the newly released Interest & Legislative Effectiveness Scores from the Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL).

CEL’s comprehensive analysis ranks Members of Congress based on their ability to advance substantive, meaningful legislation. Congressman Davis earned the top ranking among all House Democrats in the Welfare policy arena—an area in which he has long been a national leader, championing legislation to strengthen social safety-net programs, reduce poverty, support children and families, expand access to healthcare, and promote economic mobility.

“I have spent my entire career fighting to ensure every person, no matter their circumstance, has access to opportunity, dignity, and the basic supports needed to thrive,” said Congressman Danny K. Davis. “This recognition reflects the work of my staff, my colleagues in Congress, and the advocates and organizations on the ground in Chicago and across the nation who push us to keep expanding justice. Our communities deserve effective representation, and I will continue legislating with urgency and purpose.”

Davis has consistently been one of Congress’ most active lawmakers on issues central to working families and vulnerable populations, authoring and advancing legislation on child welfare, foster care, reentry, nutrition programs, childcare access, and family economic stability.",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z
https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-foster-donates-paycheck-shutdown-northern-illinois-food-bank,Rep. Foster Donates Paycheck from Shutdown to Northern Illinois Food Bank,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Geneva, IL — Today, Representative Bill Foster (D-IL) fulfilled his pledge and donated the salary he received during the government shutdown to the Northern Illinois Food Bank. During the Republican shutdowns in 2013 and 2019, Rep. Foster also donated his pay to the food bank.

“Even before the government shutdown, increasing grocery costs and Republican cuts to SNAP have left too many families in Illinois struggling to put food on the table. During the shutdown, Trump did everything he could to avoid fully funding SNAP and leave families without their food assistance. Now, Trump’s USDA is threatening to withhold SNAP funding from Democratic-led states if they don’t hand over SNAP recipients’ personal information.

“While uncertainty over SNAP funding still remains, I’m happy to support the Northern Illinois Food Bank. They have been an invaluable resource to those in our community struggling with hunger and food insecurity, and I’m committed to doing everything I can in Congress to support their work by pushing back against SNAP cuts and fighting for a more affordable future,” said Rep. Foster.

Earlier this year, Republicans passed a budget bill that put 360,000 people in Illinois at risk of losing their SNAP benefits—the largest cut to food assistance in U.S. history.

The Northern Illinois Food Bank is a non-profit organization focused on providing food to those in need across northern Illinois.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-urges-supreme-court-defend-birthright-citizenship-justices-take,Krishnamoorthi Urges Supreme Court to Defend Birthright Citizenship as Justices Take Up Trump Challenge,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi issued the following statement after the Supreme Court agreed to hear President Trump’s challenge to the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of birthright citizenship:

“President Trump’s attempt to end birthright citizenship is not only unconstitutional — it strikes at the values that have guided us since the Civil War. For more than 150 years, our courts have read the 14th Amendment’s command plainly: every child born on American soil arrives with an equal claim to the rights of citizenship. That guarantee has anchored the futures of generations of children who began life here not only with the rights of citizenship from their first breath, but with the chance to build the future their parents dreamed could be possible in America — American children whose futures should not hinge on shifting politics or prejudice. No president can override that constitutional promise or dim the welcoming light it has cast across our history. The Supreme Court must reaffirm what the Constitution makes unmistakably clear: citizenship belongs to every child born in the United States.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-introduces-strong-farms-strong-future-act-help-farmers-fight-climate,"Underwood Introduces Strong Farms, Strong Future Act to Help Farmers Fight Climate Change, Cover Higher Costs",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Representative Lauren Underwood introduced the Strong Farms, Strong Future Act, bipartisan legislation co-led by Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA). The legislation will update and strengthen U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs dedicated to fighting climate change and building resilient local agriculture systems. The legislation also makes sure farmers receive inflation-adjusted payments for implementing and strengthening climate practices on their farms.

“While Illinois farmers face the dual challenges of rising costs and a changing climate, this bipartisan legislation will make it easier for them to do what they do best: keep food on our tables and drive the economy of our entire nation,” Underwood said. “The Strong Farms, Strong Future Act will make sure that farmers are paid more as costs go up, and it gives them flexibility and strong incentives to fight the climate crisis here in our community.”

“Our farmers feed the nation and power our economy. They’re stewards of the land and are at the heart of what makes Iowa great,” said Rep. Zach Nunn. “This bill gives farmers the tools and flexibility they need to protect their soil, boost productivity, and keep Iowa’s land strong for the next generation. It’s a commonsense, market-based approach that rewards conservation and family farming.”

The Strong Farms, Strong Future Act builds on Underwood’s Farmers Fighting Change Act, which was signed into law in the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, and will:

Provide inflation adjusted payments to farmers fighting climate change

Pay farmers for activities like resource-conserving crop rotations, advanced grazing management, and perennial production systems. Payments are adjusted over time to reflect rising costs associated with planning, materials, and labor.

Update and strengthen USDA’s Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

Update the contract renewal process for farmers participating in the Conservation Stewardship Program(CSP).

Allow farmers who adopt or improve effective conservation operations to be eligible for automatic contract renewals.

Provide flexibility to producers by making additional practices and bundles eligible for contracts, allowing farmers to tailor their conservation activities to their specific needs.

Strengthen Climate Change Mitigation Bundles

Make permanent the Climate Change Mitigation Bundles established in the Inflation Reduction Act, helping farmers who implement conservation activities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon sequestration.

Increase options for producers by creating region-specific bundles for different types of land, including cropland, pastureland, rangeland, and forest land.

The Strong Farms, Strong Future Act is endorsed by the Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Stewardship Alliance, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Practical Farmers of Iowa, and the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.

“Illinois Farm Bureau appreciates and supports Rep. Lauren Underwood’s leadership on the Strong Farms, Strong Future Act. This important legislation addresses long-standing challenges within the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) that place unnecessary burdens on farmers. Modernizing the CSP renewal process helps ensure that farmers’ conservation practices are recognized, supported and prioritized through inflation-adjusted payments and other incentives. It also allows greater flexibility for conservation practices and accounts for the diverse regional differences that exist across the country,” said Brian Duncan, Illinois Farm Bureau President. “Farmers are deeply committed to caring for their land, but rising costs can make it difficult for many family farms to implement conservation measures. The Strong Farms, Strong Future Act is a commonsense, farmer-focused approach that removes financial barriers and rewards conservation. We thank Rep. Underwood for advancing legislation that strengthens farmers’ role as proactive stewards of the land.”

“The Illinois Stewardship Alliance applauds Representative Lauren Underwood for championing the Strong Farms, Strong Future Act. This bill recognizes what many Illinois regenerative farmers already know: conservation isn’t just good for the land—it’s essential for the long-term success of our farms,” said Liz Rupel, Deputy Director, Illinois Stewardship Alliance. “We’re especially encouraged to see this bill prioritize a diverse range of conservation bundles, including support for perennial production systems, specialty crops, soil health management, and advanced grazing. These are critical tools for farmers building resilient, climate-smart operations tailored to their unique land and livelihoods. By expanding these options and ensuring they’re accessible to farms of all types and sizes, this bill empowers more farmers to lead in the face of a changing climate. When farmers have the tools they need to be good stewards of the land, we ALL benefit; from healthy soil, nutritious food, clean water, and more resilient communities.”

“The Strong Farms, Strong Future Act provides ever greater producer choice in the Conservation Stewardship Program,” said Jesse Womack, Conservation Policy Specialist at National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition. “This bill strengthens CSP’s ability to provide robust cost-share for producers building complex, innovative conservation systems on their farms, conservation systems that will make them more resilient, profitable, and ecologically sound.""

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-mcclellan-durbin-introduce-legislation-to-mitigate-negative-impacts-of-natural-gas-pipelines,"Casten, McClellan, Durbin Introduce Legislation to Mitigate Negative Impacts of Natural Gas Pipelines",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Sean Casten (IL-06) and Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act of 2025, legislation to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to assess and mitigate the impacts that natural gas pipelines approved by FERC under the Natural Gas Act (NGA) will have on climate change and Environmental Justice communities.

“For too long, we have placed the interests of energy producers above all else in setting our energy policy, including when deciding whether to permit a new natural gas pipeline,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “It’s past time we put the national interest first. I’m proud to introduce this legislation that would require FERC to consider the potential impacts on climate change, Environmental Justice communities, energy affordability, and reliability before approving a new natural gas pipeline.”

“As we work to meet our growing energy demands with new technologies, we must consider the long-term impacts of those projects on surrounding communities and our environment,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “Too often, natural gas pipelines jeopardize the health and well-being of vulnerable communities, especially low-income communities and communities of color. The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act implements common-sense requirements to ensure FERC identifies and considers the wide-ranging potential impacts of these projects. This bill represents another important step in our efforts to improve energy affordability and advance environmental justice.”

“Across the country, we are seeing rising temperatures and more frequent natural disasters—a clear sign that we are facing a serious climate crisis. If we hope to mitigate this crisis and protect our most vulnerable communities, we must evaluate the climate impacts of new natural gas pipelines before we build them,” Sen. Durbin said. “Enacting the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act will protect the communities most impacted by climate change and climate pollution while ensuring access to safe and affordable energy.”

In 2022, FERC, under then-Chairman Richard Glick, issued a draft Policy Statement to clarify how the Commission would take into account a natural gas pipeline’s impacts on climate change and Environmental Justice communities. The draft statement was terminated earlier this year. The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act is intended to codify the kind of analysis called for under the draft policy statement.

In particular, the legislation would amend the NGA to require FERC to determine, among other things, whether a proposed pipeline’s impacts on climate change and Environmental Justice communities are significant, if the impacts can be mitigated, and whether the proposed pipeline would ensure energy reliability and affordability. The bill further establishes what FERC should consider when making these determinations.

For a full summary of the FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act, click HERE.

Text of the legislation can be found HERE.

“The Natural Gas Act requires FERC to consider whether a proposed interstate pipeline is both needed and in the public interest,” said Richard Glick, former chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. “It is essential that, when determining whether the public interest requires that the pipeline be permitted, FERC consider all potential benefits and adverse impacts. The Commission has not always fully considered these impacts in its decision making process. The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act would ensure full examination of a proposed pipeline’s impact on climate change and on the communities that may not have the resources necessary to ensure their voices are heard in permitting proceedings. I commend Congressman Casten for his leadership in calling attention to this important matter.”

“This legislation is a critical step forward in ensuring that FERC fully accounts for and addresses greenhouse gas emissions and environmental justice impacts of energy projects under the Natural Gas Act,” said Anastasia Gordan, Federal Policy Director of WE ACT for Environmental Justice. “The Biden Administration’s LNG study gave us a clear picture of the harms these projects impose on public health, on our climate, and on family budgets, and the courts have repeatedly called on the Commission to do the same. For decades, fossil fuel infrastructure has disproportionately burdened frontline communities, and clarifying FERC’s authority is essential to protecting all people, especially those who have borne the brunt of pollution and disinvestment. We applaud this effort to put equity, accountability, and climate responsibility at the center of energy decision-making.”

“The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission must consider greenhouse gas emissions and environmental justice impacts in its decisions around energy projects,” Mahyar Sorour, Sierra Club’s Director for Beyond Fossil Fuels Policy, said. “Yet, FERC has consistently shirked its duty to assess the holistic, long-term impacts of these projects, including methane gas pipelines. This bill will make it crystal clear that FERC must take potential climate and community harms into account when making critical decisions about the nation’s energy future. Sierra Club is grateful for the leadership of Reps. Casten and McClellan on this issue.""

""The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act is an important step towards enhancing the ability of FERC to reduce the impacts of climate change and pollution,” said Byron Gudiel, Executive Director at Center for Earth Energy & Democracy (CEED). We support this effort in ensuring that no community bears a disproportionate share of the adverse environmental and public health consequences from the build-out of fossil fuel infrastructure.""

“Congressional Republicans and the Trump Administration have demonstrated their commitment to expediting and rubber-stamping the permitting of dirty gas infrastructure with little regard for its impacts,” said Auburn Bell, Legislative Representative, Earthjustice Action. Failure to consider these impacts will only result in dirtier water, toxic air, and more chronic health issues for those living alongside them. The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act is a crucial step toward ensuring communities are at the center of FERC’s approval process and rightfully mandates FERC assess the cumulative impacts of gas pipeline pollution on environmental justice communities and climate change. We thank Representatives Casten, McClellan, and others for their efforts to protect people, especially those disproportionately impacted by greenhouse gas pollutants.”

Text of the legislation can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-renews-call-defense-secretary-hegseths-resignation,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Renews Call for Defense Secretary Hegseth’s Resignation After Inspector General Report on His Sharing of Military Operation Plans in an Unsecured Group Chat,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), a senior member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement regarding the Department of Defense Inspector General’s report on Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s use of a Signal thread to share detailed plans for an impending United States military strike on Houthi terrorists in Yemen:

“The Inspector General’s findings reveal conduct by Secretary Hegseth that constitutes an extraordinary breach of duty. The report confirms he transmitted nonpublic, time-sensitive operational details—including the number and strike times of U.S. aircraft entering hostile territory—over an unapproved, unsecure group chat just hours before those missions. Any junior officer who disclosed SECRET-level information on a personal phone would face immediate discipline. Instead, the Secretary tried to justify his actions by selectively ‘declassifying’ strike details for convenience and then refused to cooperate with investigators. Our servicemembers entrust their leaders with decisions that can mean the difference between life and death. Even in redacted form, this report makes clear these violations recklessly placed operations—and American lives—in jeopardy. Secretary Hegseth should resign.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2025/12/lahood-s-nchez-reintroduce-roth-ira-rollover-legislation-to-bolster-retirement-security,"LaHood, Sánchez Reintroduce Roth IRA Rollover Legislation to Bolster Retirement Security",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (IL-16) and Linda T. Sanchez (CA-38), along with Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Michael Bennet (D-CO), reintroduced the Retirement Rollover Flexibility Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will allow retirement savers to roll over their Roth IRA savings into a Roth account within a workplace retirement plan.

""Building retirement security is critical to the wellbeing of American families and the long-term strength of our economy,"" said Congressman LaHood. ""Our bipartisan bill will allow for the consolidation of assets, reduce duplicative fees, simplify retirement savings, and help families across the country better plan for their future. Congress must continue to remove unnecessary barriers and find solutions that help American workers build for a comfortable retirement. I am proud to join my Ways and Means colleague, Representative Sanchez, and Senators Barrasso and Bennet on this commonsense legislation.""

“Millions of Americans rely on Roth IRAs to help prepare for retirement. As more people use these accounts, we need to make it easier for workers to move their savings into the Roth options offered through their jobs,” said Congresswoman Sánchez. “I’m grateful to work with Congressman LaHood and Senators Barrasso and Bennet on this bipartisan, bicameral effort to give people a simple way to roll over their savings to build a stronger foundation for retirement.”

“Retirement savings belong to the workers who earn them, and those savings should follow them throughout their careers,” said Senator Barrasso. “The Retirement Rollover Flexibility Act creates new options for workers to bring retirement savings with them when changing jobs. This commonsense reform will strengthen retirement security and help Wyoming families build stronger financial futures.”

“Workers shouldn’t lose track of their retirement savings just because they change jobs,” said Senator Bennet. “Right now, outdated rules prevent Roth retirement accounts from moving with workers the way traditional accounts can. This bill fixes that gap—ensuring all workers can consolidate their retirement savings, reduce fees, and keep their nest egg growing no matter where their career takes them.”

“With the rapid expansion of state auto-IRA programs—nearly all of which default savers into Roth IRAs—and with Americans changing jobs more often than ever, the need for true retirement savings portability has never been greater,” said Brian Graff, CEO of the American Retirement Association. “Allowing workers to move their Roth IRA balances into designated Roth accounts within employer-sponsored retirement plans is a smart, timely, and sensible solution. The Retirement Rollover Flexibility Act will reduce duplicative fees associated with maintaining multiple accounts, curb retirement savings leakage through seamless auto-portability, and ensure workers can carry their Roth savings with them as they move through their careers. The American Retirement Association applauds Senators Barrasso and Bennet and Representatives LaHood and Sánchez for their leadership on this critical issue.”

Background:

Current law prohibits workers from rolling Roth IRA savings into workplace-based Roth retirement plans offered by employers. The Retirement Rollover Flexibility Act would specifically allow the transfer of contributions from Roth IRA plans to a workplace designated Roth account, such as a Roth 401(k). Allowing this consolidation will let workers choose the retirement savings option that best suits their need while reducing the risk of savings being lost or withdrawn early.

The legislation is supported by the American Retirement Association.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-pressley-tokuda-lead-call-recognize-interconnectedness-between,"Ramirez, Pressley, Tokuda Lead Call to Recognize Interconnectedness Between Immigrant Justice and Reproductive Justice",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC— Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Founder and co-chair of the Congressional Global Migration Caucus, Congresswoman Ayana Pressley (MA-07), Co-chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus, and Congresswoman Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Vice-chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, led 31 members of Congress in the introduction of a resolution recognizing that immigrant justice and reproductive justice are inseparable and must be pursued together.

The resolution condemns immigration enforcement policies and practices like immigration detention that lead to coerced or denied reproductive health care, including sterilization, abortion, and contraception.

“The story of my mom– a woman who crossed the border pregnant with me– reminds me that migration and reproductive healthcare are inextricably tied. Despite people traveling miles in the hope of a better life, immigration status, financial conditions, and dehumanizing treatment create significant barriers to care,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “I’m proud to introduce this resolution alongside my colleagues because reproductive justice is a human right and immigrant justice demands the dismantling of systems that criminalize migration, tear apart families, and deny immigrants access to health care and full personhood.”

""This hostile Administration seeks to sow fear and chaos in our communities, criminalize migration, and traumatize our immigrant neighbors—including denying them access to essential reproductive healthcare,"" said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus. ""The fight for immigration justice and reproductive justice are inextricably intertwined. Pregnant women are being detained without necessary medical care. Their opportunity to raise families is further limited by the unlawful threat of deportation and family separation. Our resolution affirms these truths. No body should be policed, and everyone should be met with the humanity and dignity they deserve—which is why I'm proud to introduce this resolution with Congresswoman Ramirez.""

“Access to reproductive health care is a fundamental human right, regardless of a person’s immigration status. Everyone deserves the freedom to make decisions about their body and their future without facing fear, coercion, or delay,” said Rep. Tokuda. “That’s why I am proud to co-lead this resolution with my colleagues, Reps. Ramirez and Pressley, to ensure DHS and HHS uphold their duty to protect the health and safety of all people. Reproductive justice must include immigrant justice.”

The resolution also urges members of Congress to demand that the Department of Homeland Security implement transparent oversight and accountability mechanisms that monitor reproductive health care quality across all detention facilities, and that the Department of Health and Human Services ensure unaccompanied immigrant youth can access the health care that they need, including abortion, without delay, no matter what State they are held in. Additionally, it calls on the Secretary of Homeland Security to report to Congress all internal reports regarding individuals in detention to enhance oversight and accountability.

“Today, we proudly stand with Congresswomen Delia Ramirez, Ayanna Pressley, and Jill Tokuda in advancing this critical resolution affirming that reproductive rights do not end at the border or behind detention walls. No one should be denied essential prenatal or postpartum care, coerced into medical procedures, or stripped of their right to make decisions about their own body while in U.S. custody. This resolution is a vital affirmation that federal immigration policies should uphold, rather than violate, the fundamental right to humane treatment guaranteed under U.S. and international law.” Rachana Desai Martin, Chief Program Officer, U.S., Center for Reproductive Rights

“We applaud Rep. Delia Ramirez for introducing her resolution affirming immigrant justice inseparable from reproductive justice,” said Katherine Olivera, director of government relations at the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice. “We’ve been outraged to learn about how immigrants are treated in detention centers, including being denied abortion, prenatal, maternal, and postpartum care. The everyday impact that anti-immigration policies have on our communities is a direct attack on reproductive justice and our freedoms to make decisions about our bodies and lives. Now more than ever, we need proactive policy solutions like this resolution that confront the structural systems depriving immigrant communities of health care.”

“By affirming that reproductive freedom and immigrant justice cannot exist without one another, this resolution lays the groundwork for inclusive and sustained policy change. For AAPI women, the same systems that criminalize migration often deny our communities access to basic reproductive health care and bodily autonomy. Calling on DHS to take accountability and protect access to care for all immigrants, including those in detention, is an important act of resistance in a time when our rights are under attack. These are the steps necessary to building toward a country where everyone can make decisions about their own bodies and futures, free from fear, discrimination, and government control.” – Fajer Saeed Ebrahim, Senior Director of Policy, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF).

“Immigrant Justice is deeply connected to Reproductive Justice because both are grounded in the shared belief that every person, regardless of immigration status, deserves full access to the health care they need to live and thrive,” said Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda. “That’s why In Our Own Voice is proud to endorse Congresswoman Delia Ramirez’s House Resolution, which condemns current Department of Homeland Security policies that restrict or fully prohibit access to health care coverage for immigrants. The cruel denial of essential health care not only violates human rights, but is a direct attack on the bodily autonomy of immigrant women, girls, and pregnant people. We thank Congresswoman Ramirez for her bold leadership and commitment to Reproductive Justice, which can only be achieved when we build an inclusive immigration system that works for all of us.”

The resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Rep. Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Yvette D.Clarke (NY-09), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson (GA-04), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), André Carson (IN-07), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Deborah K. Ross (NC-02), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Janice D Schakowsky (IL-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Emily Randall (WA-06), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García (IL-04), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Luz M. Rivas (CA-29), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Gilbert Ray Cisneros (CA-31), Alma S. Adams (NC-12), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Melanie A. Stansbury (NM-01), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), and Dina Titus (NV-01).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-require-baby-changing-stations-0,Underwood Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Require Baby Changing Stations in Community Health Centers,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Lauren Underwood introduced the Baby Changing in Health Centers Act, bipartisan legislation co-led by Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02). The Baby Changing in Health Centers Act would require federally qualified community health centers to provide safe, accessible baby changing tables in public restrooms. The legislation builds on the bipartisan success of Underwood’s Baby Changing on Board Act, which passed the House earlier this year.

Since the first Community Health Centers opened in 1965, the federally supported health center system has provided affordable health care to millions of people. But despite that extensive network of care, many facilities lack adequate baby-changing stations, leaving families without necessary amenities to care for their kids.

“Every parent or caregiver who walks into a community health center should know that they’ll have a clean, accessible, and safe environment to take care of their kids,” said Rep. Underwood. “Our common-sense, bipartisan legislation is a practical and necessary step to make sure families have access to the amenities they need.”

“Our federally qualified health centers are there to help families, and parents should have what they need when they walk through the door,” said Rep. Van Drew. “Having a safe, clean place to change a baby should not be an afterthought. It is something every parent expects and deserves. I am proud to be a colead in this important effort.”

The Baby Changing in Health Centers Act requires the installation of baby-changing tables in public-facing restrooms and the posting of clear signage indicating their location. The legislation also provides $5 million to assist facilities with upgrades.

The Baby Changing in Health Centers Act is endorsed by MomsRising.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-foster-takano-introduce-resolution-establish-national-3d-printing-day,"Reps. Foster, Takano Introduce Resolution to Establish National 3D Printing Day",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Bill Foster (D-IL) and Mark Takano (D-CA) introduced a House resolution to establish December 3 as National 3D Printing Day.

""3D printing has spurred cheaper, quicker, and more efficient production in everything from biotechnology to food production and advanced manufacturing. 3D printing technology provides small businesses and entrepreneurs in Illinois and across the country with state-of-the-art tools to bring new products to life and remain at the forefront of innovation,"" said Rep. Foster.

""At a time when technology is rapidly evolving and people are growing more innovative, I'm joining my colleague, Rep. Bill Foster, in introducing a resolution to designate December 3 as National 3D Printing Day. I hope that together, we can celebrate the advancements that 3D printing has enabled us to make and draw attention to the untapped power of this technology. We have the ability to positively impact countless industries, businesses, and organizations, and I am glad to be part of this effort,"" said Rep. Takano.

By enabling rapid production of previously impossible, innovative products, 3D printing has the potential to create thousands of new businesses in the U.S. and give domestic companies an edge in global markets. The Department of Energy estimates that 3D printing can save 50 percent of energy use compared to more traditional manufacturing processes. Foster and Takano introduced this resolution to honor innovative technologies, such as 3D printing, that have the potential to strengthen manufacturing in the United States.

Text of the resolution is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-calls-greater-support-womens-health,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Calls for Greater Support for Women's Health,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) released the following statement on the need to increase funding and support for women's health care:

“Increasing funding and breaking down barriers to women’s health care has never been more critical. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act would slash funding for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, stripping coverage from millions of Americans and over 500,000 Illinoisans, pushing rural hospitals to the edge of collapse and reducing women’s access to critical healthcare. I am committed to fighting every attempt to roll back essential care and to ensuring that women can access the services they need, no matter where they live.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-demands-immediate-dhs-action-after-ice-blocks,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Demands Immediate DHS Action After ICE Blocks Detainees from Accessing Federally Required Privacy Forms,2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Yesterday, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem raising alarms over what he describes as persistent, systemic failures by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel to provide detainees with access to Privacy Release Form 60-001, the federally required document that allows Members of Congress to lawfully obtain information about individual detainee cases and intervene when rights violations or urgent safety issues arise. Without this form, detainees cannot authorize congressional inquiries, and Congress cannot perform even the most basic oversight functions mandated under federal law.

In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi details repeated reports from attorneys, families, and advocates that detainees are either denied access to the form entirely or that completed forms “are never transmitted to the proper channels.” He cites ICE’s own Congressional Relations Office, which advised that detainees should be able to obtain the form by phone or written request, avenues that, in practice, “do not function,” according to the congressman.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote that this breakdown has produced what he described as a manufactured catch-22: ICE refuses to share information with Congress without a signed privacy waiver, while simultaneously refusing to provide detainees the very form required to authorize the release. This, he notes, unlawfully obstructs detainees’ rights and “prevents Congress from conducting even basic oversight.”

The letter underscores that federal law, including the Privacy Act of 1974 and the Judicial Redress Act of 2015, presumes detainees have meaningful access to the required privacy form. The congressman argues denying that access effectively blocks lawful oversight and undermines the department’s own stated procedures.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi calls on DHS to take immediate corrective action, including:

Ensuring all ICE detention facilities provide Privacy Release Form 60-001 to any detainee upon request, without delay or obstruction.

Directing all field offices, contractors, and personnel to promptly process completed forms and transmit them to congressional offices without exception.

Issuing and publicly posting clear, uniform guidance affirming ICE’s legal obligations regarding privacy waivers and cooperation with congressional inquiries.

He requests a DHS briefing by December 11 and a detailed plan to remedy and prevent future failures.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-joins-bipartisan-push-lower-drug-costs-and-expand,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi Joins Bipartisan Push to Lower Drug Costs and Expand Access to Care for Seniors, Veterans, and Servicemembers",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined with Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (R-VA) to introduce the Increasing Medication Access for Seniors Act of 2025, legislation that will lower the costs of prescription drugs and improve health care access for seniors and military families. The legislation helps Medicare beneficiaries better access the new Medicare Prescription Payment Plan, which allows seniors to spread high annual drug costs over 12 months interest-free. While the program began in January 2025, very few seniors are aware of it, and fewer than 0.05 percent have enrolled, even though many would benefit from lower upfront costs.

“I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to ensure seniors can actually access the Medicare prescription drug payment options already available to them,"" Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. ""Too many older Americans on fixed incomes don’t know they can spread high drug costs over the year, interest-free. By improving data and outreach, this bill will help more seniors take advantage of a benefit that can make their medications more affordable.""

This legislation was endorsed by Genetic Alliance, PXE International, Lupus and Allied Diseases Association, Inc., Arthritis Foundation, HIV+Hepatitis Policy Institute, Neuropathy Action Foundation, PAN Foundation, Triage Cancer, Organic Acidemia Association, Lupus Foundation of America, Alpha-1 Foundation, National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services Programs (NANASP), and Alliance for Aging Research.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-moves-subpoena-bovino-unlawful-military-tactics-lies-chicago,"Ramirez Moves to Subpoena Bovino for Unlawful Military Tactics, Lies in Chicago",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"December 3, 2025

Congresswoman Ramirez also called for the resignation of Secretary Kristi Noem

Washington, DC—Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) motioned to subpoena Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino to answer questions before the House Committee on Homeland Security. Ramirez’s motion follows Bovino’s lawless campaign of terror in Chicago. Bovino and CBP agents used riot control weapons at least 49 times across 18 incidents since October 1, violated court injunctions and agency rules, and lied to the court about incidents where civilians' lives were endangered.

During the Committee hearing, Congresswoman Ramirez also, again, submitted for the record her demand that Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem resign. Ramirez first demanded her resignation in April 2025.

After Republicans delayed the vote for 40 minutes, they tabled the motion, demonstrating their complicity with the unlawful and unaccountable actions of Trump’s DHS.

“If Noem and Bovino have nothing to hide and are acting within the confines of the law, they should be able to come to the Committee and testify,” added Congresswoman Ramirez.

For the full video of the Congresswoman’s remarks and motion to subpoena, CLICK HERE.

Full remarks as prepared for delivery:

Today’s hearing should be titled, “When Badges Become Shields: How DHS agents’ violations of our rights fuel distrust and danger.”

To suggest that DHS’s agents are professional law enforcement officers - bound by the same oversight and accountability - is ridiculous.

Law enforcement officers go through vetting before training.

New ICE recruits are irresponsibly being accelerated from vetting to training, and only dismissed if DHS finds out about and retroactively acts on information about failed drug tests, criminal backgrounds, or other requirements.

Law enforcement officers are required to wear badges, show their faces, and identify themselves.

DHS’s agents use anonymity to terrorize our communities and violate our rights.

There are mechanisms for law enforcement officers to be held accountable by the public, investigated, and disciplined.

DHS’s agents reject accountability, disregard court orders, and violate consent decrees.

Bottom line: DHS agents LIE, act with IMPUNITY, reject CHECKS and BALANCES, and IGNORE Congress and the Courts.

The American People’s anger and intolerance of DHS’s violations of our rights are the result of DHS’s unlawful, unaccountable, unconstitutional actions, which put the American people and our liberties at great risk.

DHS is the single greatest threat to public safety today.

DHS agents used chemical weapons on protesters and bystanders at least 49 times across 18 incidents in Chicago and the suburbs since Oct. 1.

Since U.S. District Court Judge Ellis issued an order forbidding federal agents from using riot control weapons on November 6th, federal agents used chemical weapons at least four times, including two cases where agents appeared to fire pepper spray into a moving car, possibly violating both the injunction and Border Patrol rules restricting chemical weapon use on motorists.

Greg Bovino and DHS claimed that he had been hit by a rock in the head before throwing tear gas, but video evidence disproves it. And he ultimately admitted he was not hit until after he threw the tear gas.

The government alleged that Marimar Martinez used her car to assault and impede federal law enforcement. But then federal prosecutors filed a motion to dismiss their own case. Why? Because while she didn’t assault the agents, they DID shoot her 5 times and then bragged about it.

And you know why rank-and-file agents think they are above the law?

Because the leadership thinks DHS is above the law.

DHS leadership LIES, acts with IMPUNITY, rejects CHECKS and BALANCES, and IGNORES Congress and the Courts.

People ask us why DHS is allowed to behave this way. The truth is that DHS was intentionally established with an overbroad mission and unchecked power. And Republicans expanded that unaccountable power with a blank check and unlimited personnel.

Terrorizing us is the point. Violating our rights is the point. Fear is the point.

But nothing DHS is doing is making us safer. And Americans are done - we see through the lie.

Enough is enough. DHS must be held accountable.

That is why I move to subpoena Gregory Bovino to come before this Committee to answer for his actions.

Mr. Chair, pursuant to clause 2(k)(6) of rule 11, I move that the Committee subpoena Gregory Bovino.

That is also why I, again, request Kristi Noem’s resignation.

I yield back.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases/schakowsky-mccaul-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-condemning,"Schakowsky, McCaul, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Persecution of Iranian Baha’i",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Janice D. Schakowsky,S001145,schakowsky.house.gov,schakowsky,https://schakowsky.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Full Text of Resolution (PDF)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Michael McCaul (TX-10) led 20 House colleagues in introducing a bipartisan resolution condemning Iran’s government for persecuting members of the Baha’i faith. The Iranian Baha’i community is the largest religious minority in Iran with a membership of more than 300,000 people.

""The Iranian government’s relentless assault on its Baha’i minority is an outrage that demands immediate action,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “We have updated the bipartisan resolution, which passed the House of Representatives last Congress, to send an even stronger, more unified message from the United States to the government of Iran condemning its grave human rights abuses. The United States and our allies must use every diplomatic tool available to hold Iran accountable and put a stop to this hate-fueled campaign once and for all.”

“The Iranian regime’s assault on the peaceful Baha'i community is abhorrent and must be condemned by leaders across the free world,” said Congressman Michael McCaul. “Through this resolution, the United States Congress is sending a clear message that we stand with the Baha’i community and will not tolerate Iran’s efforts to silence, intimidate, and persecute members of the Baha’i faith.”

Unlike some other religious minorities such as Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians, Iran's Baha'is have never been recognized by their government and are often persecuted by the Iranian regime. The regime often seizes personal property, denies Baha'i access to education and employment opportunities, and detains or imprisons Baha'is based solely on their religious beliefs.

The Iranian government’s reprehensible persecution of its Baha’i minority is a continued violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In addition to denouncing the Iranian government’s oppression of the Baha’i community, this resolution calls on Iran to immediately release imprisoned Baha’is and put an end to its state-sponsored hate campaign against them. The resolution encourages the U.S. president and secretary of state to condemn Iran’s continued rights violations and imposes sanctions on Iranian government officials who are responsible for those abuses.

U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and John Boozman (R-AR) are leading companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

“The Iranian government has squeezed every freedom from members of the Baha’i community,” said Senator Ron Wyden. “Imprisoning and torturing Baha’is and taking away their rights is immoral, unjust, and just plain wrong. The Baha'i community in Iran deserves to freely practice their religion without fear of state-sponsored persecution. I will not stop making it loud and clear that we will not stand for any part of Iran's full-scale attack on the Baha'i community.”

“The persecution of members of the Baha’i community in Iran remains alarming and disturbing,” said Senator John Boozman. “As Americans, we are blessed with religious freedom and stand with members of the Baha’i faith in their pursuit of this fundamental principle. This resolution reaffirms our commitment to their cause and solidarity against efforts to repress minority religious expression.”

In addition to Reps. Schakowsky and McCaul, this resolution is cosponsored in the House of Representatives by Reps. Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Don Beyer (VA-08), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Mike Lawler (NY-17), Rich McCormick (GA-07), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Brad Schneider (IL-10), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Jeff Van Drew (NJ-02), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), and Rudy Yakym (IN-02).

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-booker-britt-and-fitzpatrick-introduce-bipartisan-nih-improve-act,"Underwood, Booker, Britt, and Fitzpatrick Introduce Bipartisan NIH Improve Act to Codify Funding for Maternal Care & Mortality Research",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Representatives Lauren Underwood and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), together with Senators Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.), reintroduced the NIH IMPROVE Act, bipartisan legislation to ensure consistent funding for research on maternal care and mortality.

In 2019, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) launched the Implementing a Maternal health and PRegnancy Outcomes Vision for Everyone (IMPROVE) Initiative. The IMPROVE Initiative supports research to reduce preventable causes of maternal deaths and improve health care for women before, during, and after pregnancy.

However, this critical research program lacks a sustained funding source, threatening research outcomes and conclusions. The NIH IMPROVE Act would authorize consistent funding for this existing program for the next seven years, providing NIH the support and resources to pursue research into the root causes of America’s maternal mortality crisis.

“Six years ago, we worked with the National Institutes of Health to start the IMPROVE Initiative to make smart investments in comprehensive research and evidence-based solutions that save moms’ lives and advance birth equity,” said Representative Lauren Underwood. “Since 2019, IMPROVE has invested more than $200 million in life-saving research that will help end our nation’s maternal health crisis. Our bipartisan NIH IMPROVE Act will advance maternal health research by permanently authorizing funding for IMPROVE, making sure that NIH can continue this critical work.”

“Far too many maternal deaths in America are preventable, and addressing that reality demands research that is stable, long-term, and grounded in measurable outcomes. The NIH IMPROVE Act locks in the dedicated funding NIH’s maternal health portfolio needs to track outcomes over time, evaluate what works in high-risk settings, and direct resources to the communities facing the greatest challenges,” said Representative Brian Fitzpatrick. “This bipartisan legislation strengthens a proven NIH initiative and ensures that mothers across our nation benefit from research that saves lives and improves care throughout the entire pregnancy journey.”

“I’m proud to fight for moms and women across Alabama and America. This bipartisan legislation will support targeted funding for critical research to improve health outcomes for women throughout their pregnancy journey,” said Senator Katie Britt. “I’m committed to ensuring the NIH remains the gold-standard of research and provides solutions to improve health outcomes for women before, during, and after pregnancy.”

“Studies show that 80% of maternal deaths are preventable, and the NIH IMPROVE Act is a critical step forward in addressing our nation’s ongoing maternal health crisis,” said Senator Cory Booker. “This bipartisan legislation expands research and strengthens data collection so we can better understand how to save lives and close long-standing disparities in care.”

The NIH IMPROVE Act would authorize $53.4 million annually for seven years to carry out the IMPROVE Initiative and support research on potential causes of maternal mortality and severe morbidity. Additionally, the act would approve research that would target disparities associated with maternal mortality and severe morbidity, and aim to reduce preventable causes of maternal deaths, as well as build an evidence base for improved care and outcomes in underserved maternal care deserts.

Information on projects funded by the IMPROVE program can be found on the Momnibus Money Tracker here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-applauds-oversight-committees-bipartisan-approval,"Congressman Krishnamoorthi Applauds Oversight Committee’s Bipartisan Approval of Skills-Based Federal Contracting Act, Urges House to Bring Bill to Floor",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This afternoon, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform voted to approve Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s (D-IL) bipartisan Skills-Based Federal Contracting Act. The committee’s passage sets up a full vote by the full House in the coming weeks.

“Today’s bipartisan vote is an important step toward tearing down the ‘paper ceiling’ that has kept too many hardworking Americans—especially workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes (STARs)—from competing for federal contracting opportunities,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “By ensuring agencies evaluate contractors based on demonstrated skills rather than outdated degree requirements, we can open more doors for STARs, strengthen our federal workforce, and make better use of taxpayer dollars. I urge House leadership to bring this bill to the floor without delay.”

The Skills-Based Federal Contracting Act requires federal agencies to justify any minimum education or experience requirements included in contract solicitations, helping ensure that applicants are evaluated on their ability to perform the work rather than on credentials that may not reflect actual competence. The bill builds on ongoing federal efforts to expand skills-based hiring, increase competition, and remove unnecessary barriers across the federal workforce.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-warns-dhs-ice-operations-reportedly-undermined-fema,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Warns DHS that ICE Operations Reportedly Undermined FEMA Flood-Relief Work in Illinois,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today raised serious concerns about reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations interfered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s disaster-assessment work in flood-damaged neighborhoods across the Chicago area. In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Congressman Krishnamoorthi detailed how ICE deployments allegedly overlapped with FEMA field teams, hindering the federal government’s ability to evaluate storm damage after widespread flooding in Cook County earlier this year.

“Severe storms swept through Cook County and other parts of Illinois, unleashing torrential rainfall, destructive winds, and flash flooding that devastated homes and businesses,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote in the letter. “Flood survivors are coping with health hazards, including mold and contamination from sewage backup—conditions that can lead to respiratory problems for children and older adults.”

The congressman also explained FEMA’s efforts after the denial of federal disaster assistance, writing “FEMA personnel began conducting field surveys to document the extent of the damage and assess unmet needs. FEMA had notified DHS in advance that its survey teams would be operating in specific areas and that ICE should not deploy in those same locations to avoid compromising FEMA’s mission.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi went on to add, “Residents and local officials reported a visible ICE presence in the very neighborhoods where FEMA teams were on the ground, surveying sites, and questioning individuals. This reckless overlap not only jeopardized the safety of FEMA employees but also made it virtually impossible for them to carry out their duties. Families who had lost everything hesitated to seek help, fearing that a knock from a FEMA inspector could be a pretext for detention. FEMA staff reportedly suspended their fieldwork after concluding that ICE’s proximity had rendered their mission unsafe and unworkable.”

Calling the situation “unacceptable” and “a profound breach of public trust,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi has asked Secretary Noem to respond by December 10, 2025 to the following questions:

Who within DHS or ICE made the decision to deploy ICE personnel into the neighborhoods where FEMA had already indicated it would be conducting disaster assessments, and what reasons were given for doing so despite FEMA’s warning?

What specific activities ICE personnel were conducting in these areas during the periods in question, and how DHS justified those activities occurring concurrently with FEMA’s field operations?

What policies or internal guidance govern ICE’s conduct around FEMA disaster-response missions, and how DHS explains the apparent failure to adhere to—or enforce—those policies in this instance?

How DHS assesses the impact of ICE’s presence on FEMA’s ability to carry out its mission, including whether residents declined to engage with FEMA or whether FEMA personnel faced safety concerns that forced them to suspend fieldwork?

What corrective actions DHS will implement to prevent ICE operations from interfering with disaster-relief missions in the future, and whether DHS will conduct a review to identify the causes of this breakdown in coordination.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/oversight-committee-advances-congressman-krishnamoorthi-bill-rename-palatine,Oversight Committee Advances Congressman Krishnamoorthi Bill to Rename Palatine Post Office for World War II ‘Ghost Army’ Hero Bernie Bluestein,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – This afternoon, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform voted to pass Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi’s (D-IL) legislation to rename the Post Office at 1300 East Northwest Highway in Palatine as the Bernie Bluestein Post Office Building. The committee’s passage sets up a full vote by the full House in the coming weeks.

“I’m grateful the Oversight Committee advanced my bipartisan bill honoring Bernie Bluestein, and I urge the full House to bring it to a vote quickly,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “The Ghost Army helped misdirect enemy forces, protect American troops, secure key Allied victories, and free Europe from the grip of fascism. Renaming the Palatine Post Office in Mr. Bluestein’s honor ensures our community recognizes a hero who embodies the very best of the Greatest Generation, Illinois, and our nation.”

Bernard “Bernie” Bluestein is one of only a handful of surviving members of the U.S. Army’s top-secret Ghost Army, a World War II deception unit that used inflatable tanks, fake insignia, dummy convoys, and sonic operations to mislead German forces and save American lives. Serving in the 603rd Camouflage Engineer Battalion, he created false unit markings, contributed to visual ruses impersonating entire divisions, and took part in missions that stretched German defenses across France and aided the Allied push toward the Rhine. His service, kept classified for more than 50 years, was recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal in 2024.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-casten-bill-to-support-entrepreneurs-and-small-businesses-passes-house,Bipartisan Casten Bill to Support Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses Passes House,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. (December 1, 2025) — Today, the Developing and Empowering our Aspiring Leaders (DEAL) Act, bipartisan legislation led by Reps. Sean Casten (D-IL-06) and Ann Wagner (R-MO-02) that supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and capital formation, passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Congress must do more to support growth in the start-up economy and ensure capital reaches the communities and innovators who need it most,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “The DEAL Act does just that. I’m proud to co-lead this bill with Rep. Wagner and am thrilled to see it pass the House.”

Venture capital is driving innovation in Illinois and helping local startups thrive. Between 2019 and 2023, more than 1,900 Illinois-based startups received over $26 billion in support from the venture capital community, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs. In 2023, venture capital funds invested over $66 million in small businesses in Illinois’ Sixth Congressional District. A broad range of Illinois-based pension funds, university endowments, and nonprofits benefit from these investments in high-growth companies. The DEAL Act will help venture capital fund managers in Illinois and the Midwest continue to grow and invest in more innovative startups in their local and regional economies.

The DEAL Act modernizes venture capital fund rules and enhances flexibility while maintaining a strong focus on direct investment in startups. Specifically, it directs the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to revise rules governing venture capital fund qualifications. Within 180 days of enactment, the SEC must:

Broaden the definition of a “qualifying investment” to include:

Equity securities from qualifying portfolio companies, whether acquired directly or in secondary acquisitions.

Investments in other venture capital funds.

Revise eligibility requirements for venture capital fund status to mandate:

At least 51% of a fund’s commitments be invested directly in portfolio companies.

Up to 49% of its commitments may consist of shares acquired through secondary acquisitions or investments in other VC funds.

Text of the legislation can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/krishnamoorthi-and-ramirez-lead-12-house-members-demanding-answers-trump,Krishnamoorthi and Ramirez Lead 12 House Members in Demanding Answers on Trump Administration Plan That Risks Housing for Tens of Thousands of Veterans,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Last week, Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) and Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (D-IL) led 12 House Members in urging the Departments of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to explain a Trump Administration budget proposal that could destabilize core housing assistance programs that veterans rely on nationwide.

In a letter dated Tuesday, November 25, the lawmakers write that they are “deeply concerned about the creation of a new program titled Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment (BRAVE) in the fiscal year (FY) 2026 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) budget proposal.” They note that “according to President Trump’s FY 2026 Budget Request, BRAVE seemingly requires the reallocation of all resources from the Housing and Urban Development VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program – a total of $1.1 billion in discretionary resources.”

The Members warn that “the reallocation of federal funding from HUD-VASH to BRAVE threatens to destabilize a proven housing assistance program and puts more than 112,000 VASH vouchers dedicated to veterans at risk.” They emphasize that HUD-VASH is a long-established partnership between HUD and the VA that “combines rental assistance with case management and supportive services in order to help homeless veterans and their families obtain permanent housing and access the health care, mental health treatment, and other supports necessary to help them improve their quality of life and maintain housing over time,” and that “HUD-VASH has served more than 175,000 veterans since 2008.”

The lawmakers argue that dismantling HUD-VASH to create a new, undefined program is unjustifiable: “Reallocating resources from HUD-VASH in order to establish a vague and ill-defined program is reckless and irresponsible. HUD-VASH is a long-standing housing assistance program which has been vital to our nation’s most vulnerable veterans for decades.” They also warn that, despite its massive implications, “the VA FY 2026 budget request devotes only 10 lines to describing the new BRAVE initiative” and “provides no discernible administrative or organizational structure, distribution system, or performance guardrails.”

Their concerns deepen given that “the Trump Administration has proposed a 51 percent reduction in HUD’s budget.” The Members write that the FY 2026 proposal “does not address how the across-the-board cuts will impact veterans whose housing depends on HUD rental assistance, including the estimated hundreds of thousands of veterans who rely on HUD rental assistance programs other than HUD-VASH.” As a result, they conclude, “there is no clear plan to ensure veterans’ housing stability if HUD-VASH or other housing assistance programs are abruptly defunded. Absent answers to these questions, Congress cannot responsibly authorize such a significant reallocation of resources.”

The lawmakers underscore that destabilizing housing for veterans is unacceptable: “Veterans’ housing stability must never be subject to uncertainty due to reckless planning, indifference, or ill-advised experimentation. Our veterans have made extraordinary sacrifices in defense of our country. In return, we have a moral and civic obligation to provide them with consistent, reliable access to safe housing and essential support services.” They warn that “pursuing a programmatic transition that could put veteran housing at risk would be a profound failure of leadership and governance.”

To ensure transparency and protect veterans from losing housing support, the Members request direct answers from VA and HUD no later than December 12, 2025, asking:

What will be the organizational structure of the BRAVE program? What will its leadership and administrative structure be, and through what agency or interagency will it operate?

What will happen to the existing institutional structures operated by HUD-VASH? How will HUD-VASH staffing, service delivery, and housing agency partnerships be preserved?

What mechanisms will be in place to avoid gaps in housing assistance for veterans currently supported by HUD-VASH?

How many veterans are housed by or receive other forms of HUD assistance? Please provide a detailed breakdown of veterans served by each HUD program. Please also provide a detailed explanation of how these veterans will continue to access housing assistance if the BRAVE program and HUD budget cuts are implemented.

How will VA’s legislative proposal ensure all HUD-VASH beneficiaries are seamlessly transitioned into BRAVE, without housing loss or interruption in their care? What accountability measures will be put in place to ensure BRAVE funds are used effectively and transparently?

What mechanisms will be incorporated into VA’s legislative proposal for congressional oversight of BRAVE’s rollout and performance, if it proceeds? How will Congress be informed of and involved in the phase-out of HUD-VASH?

The lawmakers close by reiterating that “our budgets should reflect our commitments to veterans, while upholding accountability and service continuity. We urge you to treat this matter with the urgency and transparency our veterans deserve.”

This letter was led by Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) and Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and also signed by:

Rep. Greg Casar (TX-35)

Rep. Herb Conaway Jr., M.D. (NJ-03)

Rep. Dwight Evans (PA-03)

Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10)

Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-04)

Rep. Jonathan Jackson (IL-01)

Rep. Stephen Lynch (MA-08)

Rep. Sarah McBride (DE-AL)

Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-01)

Rep. Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-reintroduces-hire-act-bolster-us-competitiveness,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Reintroduces the HIRE Act To Bolster U.S. Competitiveness by Expanding High-Skilled Immigration and Investing in STEM Education,2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) announced the reintroduction of the High-Skilled Immigration Reform for Employment (HIRE) Act, legislation designed to strengthen America’s long-term economic and technological competitiveness. The bill takes a dual-track approach: expanding access to high-skilled talent from around the world while increasing federal investments in American STEM education to grow the domestic workforce.

The HIRE Act would double the number of H-1B visas available each year—from 65,000 to 130,000— to ensure U.S. employers, including those in critical and emerging technology sectors, can recruit the specialized talent needed to fill persistent workforce shortages. At the same time, the bill directs new funding to bolster elementary and secondary school science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs, helping close the skills gap that continues to limit U.S. economic growth.

“To build the jobs and industries of tomorrow, America must stay at the forefront of innovation by strengthening our own workforce while continuing to welcome top talent from around the globe,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “The HIRE Act advances both goals by boosting STEM education in our elementary and secondary schools and by expanding the annual supply of H-1B visas from 65,000 to 130,000. By growing our domestic talent pipeline and ensuring employers can recruit the skilled workers they need, we can create good-paying jobs and secure America’s leadership in the technologies of the future.”

The legislation is supported by ITServe Alliance, the nation’s largest association of IT services organizations.

“The HIRE Act is an important step toward modernizing our high-skilled immigration system and ensuring that talented professionals can continue to contribute to America’s innovation economy,” Raghu Chittimalla, Governing Board Chair of ITServe Alliance, said. “Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s leadership reflects a deep understanding of how small and mid-sized IT companies drive job creation and technological growth across the United States.”

“ITServe Alliance fully supports the HIRE Act because it strengthens the pathway for U.S. employers to recruit and retain the best global talent while protecting American workers,” Anju Vallabhaneni, National President of ITServe Alliance, said. “This bill advances fairness, transparency, and workforce development—key priorities for both our members and the broader technology industry.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://lahood.house.gov/2025/11/lahood-panetta-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-simplify-retirement-options-for-seniors,"LaHood, Panetta Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Simplify Retirement Options for Seniors",2025-11-26,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IL,Darin LaHood,L000585,lahood.house.gov,lahood,https://lahood.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) introduced the Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act, alongside his Ways and Means colleague Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19). This legislation works to remove barriers and provide individuals with clearer guidance and more flexibility while planning for retirement.

""Hardworking Americans planning for retirement shouldn’t have to face extraneous complications that create uncertainty about their financial future,"" said Rep. LaHood. ""Providing more flexibility and a better guidance during the process will help ensure Americans can properly prepare for retirement and feel confident in their decisions. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Representative Panetta to help eliminate needless hurdles and reduce the confusion surrounding retirement.”

“Navigating the various processes of saving for retirement can get very complicated, very fast,” said Rep. Panetta. “This bipartisan bill helps Americans plan for retirement by making the process simpler and giving them more flexibility. By helping Americans make informed decisions about their savings, we can strengthen their financial security for retirement and the years ahead.”

“The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisers (NAIFA) is pleased to endorse the Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act, introduced by Rep. Panetta (D-CA) and Rep. LaHood (R-IL)” announced NAIFA CEO Kevin M. Mayeux. “As the largest national association of insurance and financial advisers with members assisting hard-working, everyday Americans in all states and Congressional districts with retirement savings choices, we applaud any effort to simplify the rules for retirement savings and to enhance the ability of retirees to ensure they do not outlive their savings through guaranteed income options. This bill will advance those worthy goals, and NAIFA looks forward to working with the sponsors to see it enacted.”

Background:

A 402(f) Notice is a document that lays out the action steps that someone can take with their retirement savings. It is issued to participants who have separated from their employer and requested a distribution from their plan.

It is the only disclosure that plans are required to provide to participants who are eligible for a rollover that is specifically about the options for their plan savings and its related tax consequences.

A 2024 Government Accountability Office (GAO) Report found that 401k participant understanding of their distribution options remains a challenge despite treasury’s required 402(f) notices. This is in part due to the complexity of the notices and lack of clarity.

Participants also cannot use in service rollover rules to buy annuities while continuing to save in their 401k, limiting their options for income streams into retirement.

402(f) notices are overly complex and unclear and in-service rollover restrictions limit 401k participants’ options.

To combat these issues, the Retirement Simplification and Clarity Act implements GAO recommendations to simplify 402(f) notices that outline options when individuals request distributions from their retirement plans.

This bill creates a new in-service rollover option to allow individuals aged 50+ to roll over some or all their existing retirement savings into an annuity product for guaranteed lifetime income while continuing to save in their 401(k) plan.

These adjustments simplifies information for individuals and expands income stream options for retirement.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-applauds-bipartisan-senate-introduction-of-pilot-mental-health-bills,Casten Applauds Bipartisan Senate Introduction of Pilot Mental Health Bills,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) applauded the bipartisan Senate introduction of the Mental Health in Aviation Act and the Aviation Medication Transparency Act by Senators John Hoeven (R-ND) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

“Ensuring pilots and aviators have access to mental health care makes our skies safer,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “The current outdated system perpetuates a culture of silence and unfairly penalizes aviators who seek care. I applaud Senators Hoeven and Duckworth for their leadership in introducing the Senate companions for two bills that rectify this issue and ensure those who need help can get it.”

Rep. Casten and Rep. Pete Stauber (MN-08) introduced the Mental Health in Aviation Act and the Aviation Medication Transparency Act in the House of Representatives in April. Reps. Casten and Stauber unanimously passed the Mental Health in Aviation Act through the House on September 8, 2025.

Rep. Casten began working on the issue after local families approached him with stories of losing adult children in flight school to suicide. In one case, the student pilot expressed how seeking mental health care could jeopardize his dreams of becoming a pilot.

Mental Health in Aviation Act

Currently, pilots and air traffic controllers who seek mental health care are unfairly penalized by a system that perpetuates a culture of silence. While aviation professionals are mandated to report if they seek mental health care, once they take that step, they are faced with delays, confusion, and overbroad regulation in the process of returning to work. This often means that relatively minor mental health concerns result in long wait times and derailed careers for safe and well-trained pilots and air traffic controllers.

In December 2023, the FAA recognized the need to reform its current policies and established the Mental Health and Aviation Medical Clearances Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) to identify barriers to mental health care for aviators and present recommendations to the FAA to address these challenges. The ARC coalesced around a list of 24 recommendations to eliminate key barriers to care while upholding safety standards.

The Mental Health in Aviation Act requires the FAA to take the following steps:

Regulations for Individuals Carrying Out Aviation Activities

Directs the FAA to revise regulations based on recommendations from the FAA’s mental health task group that was established in the FAA Reauthorization of 2024 to encourage early disclosure and treatment of mental health conditions without fear of losing one’s career.

Requires the FAA to consult with a broad range of stakeholders, including academic institutions conducting aviation training and mental health professionals, to ensure that future policies reflect current clinical standards and aviation workforce realities.

Annual Review of Mental Health Special Issuance Process

Requires the FAA to annually review and update processes related to the special issuance process for FAA medical certificates for pilots and air traffic controllers.

Requires the FAA to annually review the classification and use of medications, and to improve mental health knowledge and training provided to Aviation Medical Examiners.

Authorization of Appropriation for Additional Medical Examiners

Allocates $15 million annually (FY2026–FY2029) to recruit and train additional aviation medical examiners (AMEs) and human intervention motivation study (HIMS) trained AME’s, including psychiatrists, to increase oversight and process certification reviews more efficiently.

Public Information Campaign

Allocates $1.5 million annually (FY2026–FY2029) for a public information campaign to reduce the stigma around mental health care in aviation, and to encourage pilots and air traffic controllers to seek necessary mental health treatment.

Text of the House version of the Mental Health in Aviation Act can be found here.

Aviation Medication Transparency Act

Currently, the FAA provides Aviation Medical Examiners with specific guidance on medications that are safe for aviators and those that necessitate grounding for various periods. However, this crucial information is not made accessible to pilots, non-aeromedical physicians, or air traffic Controllers.

As a result, an aviator may unknowingly take prescription medications that could potentially jeopardize their career. If both the aviator and their physician had access to information regarding permissible medications, they could opt for similar medications that would not pose such risks. To make sure pilots and air traffic controllers have full information, the Aviation Medication Transparency Act requires the publication of a list of approved medications. Further, this bill requires that the FAA:

Publish and maintain this list of medications that are safe for pilots and air traffic controllers to take while working within one year of enactment.

Maintain this list in consultation with various stakeholders

Ensure that this list is comprehensive and drafted in a user-friendly and accessible manner.

Indicate what, if any, period of time aviators must have limited duties while taking this medication

Indicate a list of medications that the FAA has designated as “Do Not Issue”

Include any other clarifications it deems necessary

Update this list annually

Include a mechanism for doctors to seek information from the FAA should they have any questions

Text of the Aviation Medication Transparency Act can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-announces-wells-act-new-maternal-health-bill-honor-mercedes,"Rep. Kelly announces WELLS Act, a new maternal health bill, in honor of Mercedes Wells",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Robin L. Kelly,K000385,robinkelly.house.gov,robinkelly,https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"DOLTON, ILL. – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) announced plans to introduce new maternal health legislation with Mercedes Wells, a constituent who was forced to give birth in her truck after being discharged from a hospital. The WELLS Act, named in honor of Mercedes, will urge hospitals and birthing centers to develop and implement a safe discharge plan.

“Mercedes’s courage to speak out about her experience and advocate for change propelled me to introduce the WELLS Act to ensure no other mother goes through the same pain,” said Rep. Kelly, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust. “Mercedes has given birth three times before and was telling the nurse she was in active labor, but far too often, Black women’s pain is ignored, dismissed, and discharged. This cannot continue to happen. My legislation builds on my comprehensive CARE for Moms Act and aims to correct our healthcare system, so all Black women receive the care they need and deserve.”

Last week, Mercedes was discharged from Franciscan Health Crown Point in Indiana while in active labor. She said a doctor never treated her before a nurse discharged her, not even giving her husband Leon Wells the chance to warm up the truck. Minutes later, as she and Leon were driving to the closest hospital, Mercedes gave birth to her fourth child.

""I'll live with this experience for the rest of my life,” said Mercedes. “No expecting mother should be visited by this kind of horror. I'm ready to Join Congresswoman Kelly in advocating for women like me. I'm ready to speak up and speak out so that one day, substandard medical care is a thing of the past.”

Leon pulled over to the side of the road to deliver his daughter with no medical training, knowledge, or proper equipment.

""My wife deserved better,” said Leon. “My daughter deserved better. Congresswoman Kelly gives me hope that better is achievable.”

""Congresswoman Kelly is a leader in this area so it's no surprise that she's taking this situation very seriously,” Cannon Lambert, Sr., the family’s lawyer, said.

Rep. Kelly plans to introduce the WELLS Act, or the Women Expansion for Learning and Labor Safety Act, once the House is back in session after Thanksgiving.

The WELLS Act urges any hospital that provides obstetric, emergency, or labor and delivery services to develop and implement a Safe Discharge Labor Plan. The plan, at minimum, must include a clinical justification for discharge, assessment of travel distance, an identified back-up hospital or birthing facility, verification of reliable transportation, and documentation of patient understanding. The bill also includes racial bias training for healthcare professionals, building on Rep. Kelly’s Maternal Health Quality Improvement Act, passed in 2022.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/ranking-member-underwood-shares-report-oversight-visit-ices-broadview,Ranking Member Underwood Shares Report from Oversight Visit to ICE’s Broadview Processing Center,2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BROADVIEW, IL—Today, Representative Lauren Underwood, Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, conducted an oversight visit to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Broadview Processing Center, one of the primary facilities used to hold Illinoisians during Operation Midway Blitz. Underwood’s visit marks the first time that a member of Congress has been granted access to the facility since Donald Trump took office, despite repeated requests that were previously denied by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The visit follows widespread community outrage at Operation Midway Blitz’s constitutional violations and ongoing questions about federal immigration enforcement practices across Illinois and the nation.

Underwood received a briefing from leadership of the Chicago Field Office and toured the entire facility, including intake rooms, holding spaces, and officer work areas. The visit occurred as dozens of constituents across her community continue to report being detained, confronted, or questioned by federal personnel. For weeks, the Illinois delegation received no timely responses to basic inquiries regarding the safety or location of constituents impacted by the operation.

“Families in our community are living with fear and confusion because of Operation Midway Blitz. They deserve answers about what is happening inside these facilities and what authority DHS is using,” said Underwood. “My visit confirmed serious concerns about conditions, staffing, recordkeeping, and transparency. I will continue pressing for accountability and immediate corrective action.”

During her visit, Underwood was informed that the Broadview Processing Center employs twenty-two staff, the same number as before the operation. The facility previously operated Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. but now runs seven days a week with significant overtime and plans for a third shift. She was informed that contracted officers at Broadview work for Paragon, which also supplies contracted personnel to the Federal Building in downtown Chicago and the ICE downtown Chicago processing center. Underwood was told that both sites are preparing for substantial expansion, including a potential reconfiguration of Broadview to accommodate temporary workspaces. Broadview Processing Center will reportedly be used as a training facility for newly hired Deportation Officers, due to the high volume of detainees.

Although Broadview is a processing center rather than a long-term detention site, the Trump Administration has used it to detain individuals for longer than DHS policy allows. Consistent with community and media reports, Underwood observed holding areas that did not meet ICE’s detention standards. Toilet stalls had three-foot tall privacy barriers, only providing privacy for those seated. Some holding rooms had space for more than thirty people but lacked showers. Staff reported that individuals were held for two to three nights in October 2025, far beyond the twelve-hour limit that DHS waived for all processing centers in June 2025.

DHS staff informed Underwood that there are no medical staff on site at Broadview. Officers call 911 for emergencies. The facility is reportedly seeking assistance from the ICE Health Service Corps or a private medical contractor, but no timeline was provided. This gap places individuals with chronic medical needs at significant risk.

Underwood examined paper intake forms that track basic arrest information, including the arrest team, whether the arrest was targeted or collateral, and whether the individual had medication or identification on their person. All intake information is still collected on paper rather than electronically. This raises concerns about accuracy, completeness, and accountability. It remains unclear whether ICE is logging all arrests connected to Operation Midway Blitz or consistently documenting encounters involving United States citizens.

Officers reported that there were no individuals present during the visit due to a scheduled security system video camera update. They also confirmed that the facility received an oversight visit from a magistrate judge and the ACLU approximately two weeks ago. Recent detainee populations included individuals from Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, and several African countries. Detention beds for women is limited in this region, and so most female detainees are being transferred to Kentucky. Transgender detainees are being sent to Denver.

Detained individuals are offered a phone call as a courtesy. Attorney phone calls are routed through the facility control room.

During the visit Underwood also raised concerns about the lack of clear communication from DHS regarding the status of Operation Midway Blitz. No formal notification has been provided indicating whether the operation has concluded. Officers at Broadview stated that Border Patrol does not work inside the facility and were unsure where Border Patrol is currently headquartered in Illinois. However, Underwood was informed that a Border Patrol scout team and intelligence team from El Paso and Detroit entered Illinois in the weeks and months before formally joining the operation.

DHS officials told Underwood that the Chicago immigration court docket is now among the largest in the nation, with more than two hundred thirty thousand cases pending and more than four hundred seventy thousand across the six-state region. Thirty thousand individuals in the Chicago area are categorized as ready for removal. Deportation flights are conducted out of the Gary, Indiana, airport. Currently, within their area of responsibility—which includes Wisconsin, Indiana, Kentucky, Kansas, and Missouri—they have three thousand detainees in custody. In response to the influx of detainees, CoreCivic is building a new ICE detention center in Leavenworth, Kansas.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-demands-answers-noem-following-ice-employees-arrest,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Demands Answers from Noem Following ICE Employee’s Arrest in Child-Solicitation Sting and Reports of Alarming Vetting Lapses,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem raising “serious concerns regarding recent reporting about lapses in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) hiring and vetting processes,” concerns made “even more urgent by the arrest of an ICE agent in Bloomington, Minnesota, during a multi-agency sting targeting individuals attempting to solicit a minor at the Mall of America.” In the letter, Congressman Krishnamoorthi wrote that although “public information about the individual’s background remains incomplete,” the nature of the allegations “heightens longstanding questions about ICE’s capacity to ensure that its personnel meet the agency’s own requirements.”

Quoting ICE’s own standards, Congressman Krishnamoorthi noted that “personnel vetting involves assessing an individual’s background, character, and other pertinent factors to ascertain their suitability” and that “all positions require security vetting and drug test,” with law enforcement vetting taking an average of three months to complete. Yet, “multiple recent investigations have revealed that ICE has permitted recruits to appear for training… before all required vetting steps were finished.”

The congressman also cited reports that instructors have discovered “disqualifying information only after recruits had already begun training,” including issues that “should have prevented their entry into the academy.” Additional independent reporting suggests that ICE’s accelerated hiring strategy could lead to “catastrophic” outcomes if vetting lapses continue unaddressed. Congressman Krishnamoorthi noted the “findings raise fundamental questions about the consistency of ICE’s practices with its own publicly posted protocols, and whether systemic weaknesses, procedural shortcuts, or oversight gaps are undermining the integrity of the personnel-screening process.”

Congressman Krishnamoorthi requested a detailed response from Secretary Noem by December 10 to oversight concerns in five key areas:

The vetting steps completed for the Bloomington employee and whether required procedures were followed.

ICE’s criteria for allowing recruits to enter training when portions of vetting remain unfinished.

How often recruits have begun training prematurely in the past 11 months and what vetting gaps were involved.

ICE’s processes for verifying applicant information, identifying undisclosed allegations, or detecting falsified materials.

Systemic vulnerabilities, oversight mechanisms, and the role of contracted vetting firms in ensuring compliance with ICE’s own standards.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi underscored that the seriousness of the allegations requires a full accounting from DHS and immediate steps to restore confidence in ICE’s personnel-screening process.

The letter is available here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-krishnamoorthi-partners-sen-markey-rep-dexter-and-100-members-congress,"Rep. Krishnamoorthi Partners with Sen. Markey, Rep. Dexter and 100 Members of Congress in Urging Trump Administration to Help Address Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Congresswoman Maxine Dexter (D-OR) in partnering with a group of 100 Members of Congress in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging the United States to work with both Israeli authorities and international partners to push toward rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure in Gaza. After two years of brutal conflict, Gaza’s medical infrastructure lies in ruins, leaving millions unable to seek even basic care and thousands suffering from life-threatening injuries. The United States has the ability to help rebuild this infrastructure and usher an end to this humanitarian crisis.

In the letter, the lawmakers write, “Gaza’s health system is in dire straits, leaving civilians without access to the most basic medical care. It is crucial that accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure be rebuilt, and that medical aid and healthcare professionals be allowed to enter Gaza without delay. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 94 percent of Gaza’s hospitals have been damaged or destroyed, and those that remain are overwhelmed. With more than half of all essential drugs and two-thirds of medical disposables completely depleted, Gaza’s few functioning hospitals are unable to perform basic surgeries, treat chronic diseases, or care for malnourished children. The WHO estimates that more than 15,600 patients, including 3,800 children, require urgent medical evacuation to receive life-saving care; and at least 700 people have already died while awaiting transfer.”

The lawmakers continue, “Ensuring that children and families devastated by this war have access to medical treatment is indispensable to rebuilding trust and hope. The next generation cannot build peace without healing from the physical and emotional scars of this conflict. By pressing for the release of Gaza’s detained medical workers, rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure, and reopening pathways to the East Jerusalem Hospital Network, the United States can help alleviate immense suffering, advance regional stability, and reaffirm our nation’s role as a credible partner for peace.”

The lawmakers request the following information by December 1, 2025:

What steps is the State Department taking to facilitate medical evacuations for critically ill and injured Palestinians?

What actions has the State Department taken to secure unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza to deliver desperately needed medical supplies, food, and water?

What actions will the State Department pursue to secure the release of detained health workers held without charge?

How will the State Department facilitate the reopening of the medical corridor between Gaza and the East Jerusalem Hospital Network and other facilities with the assurance that patients be allowed to return to Gaza when able?

How will the State Department assist in rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure in Gaza?

The letter is cosigned by: Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Angela D. Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.).

The letter is co-signed by Representatives: Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Robert Garcia (CA-49), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Mark Takano (CA-41), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Andre Carson (IN-07), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Al Green (TX-09), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Danny Davis (IL-07), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Derek Tran (CA-45), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Emily Randall (WA-06), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Dave Min (CA-47), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Becca Balint (VT-At Large), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Greg Casar (TX-35), Henry C. Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Gwen S. Moore (WI-04), Sean Casten (IL-06), Jennifer L. McClellan (VA-04), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Adam Smith (WA-09), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Jesús G. Garcia (IL-04), Don Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Valerie P. Foushee (NC-04), Dwight Evans (PA-03), John Garamendi (CA-08), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Julie Johnson (TX-07), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Gabe Amo (RI-01), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Suzan K. DelBene (WA-01), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Terri A. Sewell (AL-07), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Robert J. Menendez (NJ-08), and Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-ukraine-caucus-statement-president-trumps-reported,Congressional Ukraine Caucus Statement on President Trump's Reported Ukraine-Russia Peace Plan,2025-11-22,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Mike Quigley,Q000023,quigley.house.gov,quigley,https://quigley.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Representatives Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), and Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), along with Representative Don Bacon (R-NE-02) , Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation issued the following statement in response to the reported peace plan between Ukraine and Russia:

“The proposed ‘peace plan’ for Ukraine appears to favor the interests of the aggressor — Dictator Vladimir Putin — over the sovereignty and security of a democratic Ukraine. That is unacceptable. This framework does not offer a genuine path to lasting peace, but instead, demands the surrender and capitulation of Ukraine to Russian aggression. It rewards Russia’s unprovoked invasion, illegal seizure of Ukrainian territory, such as Crimea, and pressures Ukraine to limit its defense capabilities and abandon its aspirations for NATO membership.

Furthermore, Russia’s ambitions do not end at Ukraine’s borders. Putin continues to seek broader influence in Europe. Accepting this proposed plan not only submits Ukraine’s independence to Russian tyranny, but leaves all of Europe even more vulnerable to future Russian aggression. A responsible approach must support Ukraine’s sovereignty, strengthen its defense, and hold Russia accountable for its actions in coordination with our NATO and European Allies.

Reports indicate the plan was developed primarily by US and Russian officials, with limited to no consultation from Kyiv or key European partners. Allies have rightly rejected the proposal, describing it as a framework to reward aggression rather than defending Ukrainian freedom and securing peace through strength.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-garcia-s-statement-on-the-dismissal-of-charges-against-marimar-martinez,Congressman García’s Statement on the Dismissal of Charges Against Marimar Martinez,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García issued the following statement after federal prosecutors dropped their case against Marimar Martinez, and Anthony Ruiz. Ms. Martinez, was repeatedly shot by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent in Brighton Park on October 4:

“I am pleased to see that the charges against Marimar Martinez and Anthony Ruiz have been dismissed. Federal agents involved in the violence unleashed by Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago have a track record of lying about their actions, and we must hold them accountable for the terror they are deploying in our communities.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases/declaracion-del-congresista-garcia-sobre-el-sobreseimiento-de-los-cargos-contra-marimar-martinez,Declaración del Congresista García sobre el Sobreseimiento de los Cargos Contra Marimar Martínez,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,"Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García",G000586,chuygarcia.house.gov,chuygarcia,https://chuygarcia.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — El Congresista Jesús “Chuy” García emitió la siguiente declaración después de que la fiscalía federal retirara los cargos contra Marimar Martínez y Anthony Ruiz. La Sra. Martínez recibió varios disparos de parte de un agente de la Oficina de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza (CBP) en Brighton Park el 4 de octubre:

“Me complace que se hayan sobreseído los cargos contra Marimar Martínez y Anthony Ruiz. Los agentes federales involucrados en la violencia desatada por la Operación Midway Blitz en Chicago tienen un historial de mentir sobre sus acciones, y debemos exigirles responsabilidades por el terror que están sembrando en nuestras comunidades”.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-levin-bonamicci-senator-durbin-duckworth-introduce-bill-expand-student,"Ramirez, Levin, Bonamicci & Senator Durbin, Duckworth Introduce Bill to Expand Student Loan Refinancing For Service Members",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), the House Veterans’ Affairs Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Ranking Member, joined by U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), reintroduced the Servicemember Student Loan Affordability Act. The bicameral legislation would amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to allow service members to consolidate or refinance student loan debt they had when they entered the military and continue to benefit from the six percent interest rate cap to which they are entitled through the SCRA.

A provision in the SCRA protects service members from high student loan interest rates by capping interest rates at 6% on loans they took out before entering active-duty military service. However, if a service member consolidates or refinances their student loans, which is required for Federal Family Education Loans or Perkins student loan borrowers to benefit from the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, that new loan is no longer eligible for this interest rate protection.

“Our veterans deserve every benefit our nation has promised, including a quality education that helps them transition back into their civilian life. But, like so many students in our nation, student veterans endure predatory student loan interest rates that leave them in debt and struggling to make ends meet. Our bill protects our servicemembers from high interest rates when they are consolidating or refinancing their loans,” said Rep. Ramirez. “As we support our veterans, I will continue to advocate for the cancellation of all student loans and free, quality education for all those who wish to pursue it.”

“When someone volunteers to serve in our military, they shouldn’t be met with bureaucratic roadblocks that make it harder for them to pay back their student loans,” Durbin said. “The Servicemember Student Loan Affordability Act would make a commonsense fix to the SCRA to ensure that service members are not penalized for participating in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.”

“As higher education slips further out of reach for so many Americans, we should be doing everything we can to make it more affordable—especially for those who choose to serve in the military,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to continue working with Senator Durbin on this commonsense legislation that would protect our Servicemembers from high interest rates when they consolidate or refinance their student loans.”

Joining Ramirez in introducing the legislation in the House are U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Mike Levin (CA-49). Joining Durbin and Duckworth in introducing the legislation in the Senate is U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY).

“I’m pleased to lead this commonsense legislation with Congresswoman Delia Ramirez,” said Rep. Bonamici. “Servicemembers are currently at risk of losing the 6 percent cap on interest rates when they consolidate or refinance their loans. The Servicemember Student Loan Affordability Act retains that cap, helping servicemembers get the education they deserve without accruing unmanageable student loan debt. It is my priority as a senior member on the Education Committee to make college more accessible and affordable for all students.""

“Our service members should not have to worry about overly high interest rates on their student loans while they are protecting the United States of America,” said Rep. Levin. “Our bill would help service members tackle student loan debt by extending interest rate limitations and ensuring they have the financial stability they deserve. When men and women in uniform answer the call to serve, the least we can do is ease the burdens they face at home.”

The Servicemember Student Loan Affordability Act is endorsed by the Institute for College Access and Success, the National Education Association, American Federation of Teachers, Military Officers Association of America, Wounded Warrior Project, National Guard Association of the U.S, and Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors.

For the full text of the legislation, CLICK HERE.

BACKGROUND

According to a report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office, as of 2020, nearly 200,000 active-duty service members held federal student loan debt, and nearly half of those active-duty service members had balances of more than $13,000.

With an outstanding balance of more than $1.6 trillion, student loan debt has surpassed credit cards as the largest cumulative consumer debt in America, second only to mortgages. Student loan debt falls particularly hard on service members, who too often find it difficult to work with student loan servicers and receive the benefits to which they are entitled. The Servicemember Student Loan Affordability Act would ensure federal law does not interfere with service members obtaining the benefits they have earned by serving our country.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-introduces-bipartisan-bill-help-students-access-federal-student,SCHNEIDER INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN BILL TO HELP STUDENTS ACCESS FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS WHEN STUDYING ABROAD,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Bradley Scott Schneider,S001190,schneider.house.gov,schneider,https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10) and Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), members of the House Ways and Means Committee, introduced the bipartisan Providing Distance Education for Foreign Institutions Act, a bill to ensure American students studying at universities abroad can continue to access federal student loans.

“We need to help American students already weighed down by record-setting student debt and lift the barriers that stand in the way of accessing an international degree,” said Rep Schneider. “Students who pursue an international education gain skills that equip them to thrive in a global economy, and they deserve the same support they receive at home. Universities routinely offer a portion of their classes online in the US and abroad, but only students who study internationally are barred from receiving financial aid for such programs. This bill closes that gap.”

American students studying at institutions of higher education that participate in the Title IV loan program can finance full degrees abroad. However, the 400 international schools that participate in the loan program are currently prohibited from participating in Title IV if any part of their program is offered online. During the COVID-19 pandemic this prohibition was waived but has since gone back into effect, leaving American students at risk of losing their ability to finance their degrees as most colleges and universities have widened their courses to routinely offer programs online.

“Students studying abroad shouldn’t risk losing federal aid just because some of their coursework is remote. I thank Rep. Schneider for joining me on this bipartisan fix, and urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation,” said Rep. Smucker.

Due to this prohibition, schools are forced to make extreme and costly accommodations – offering in person programs only for American students using financial aid. Without amendment, these schools could completely opt out of participating in the Title IV loan program and American students will be left without a way to finance their degrees abroad.

“The International Education Council (IEC) applauds the introduction of The Providing Distance Education for Foreign institutions Act and commends Representatives Scheider and Smucker on the introduction of the bill. The total online prohibition has shut the door on American students who need to finance their degree while physically attending campuses abroad. American youth should be able to choose their location and program of study, given the high-quality-for-value and unique offerings at highly reputable international schools. This measure will continue to allow those Americans to use their federal loan funds to help obtain that experience as the delivery of education evolves,” said IEC Executive Director Robert Moran. “We are grateful to Representatives Smucker and Schneider for supporting American students and recognizing the need for this legislation. American financial aid provides students with the ability to choose their institution. Participation by colleges and universities outside the United States in the Title IV Direct Loan program vastly expands opportunities for students who want to obtain their postsecondary education overseas. These opportunities provide students with a wealth of global awareness and diplomatic skillsets they bring home to the United States.”

You can find the bill text here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases/underwood-condemns-dhs-secretary-kristi-noem-operation-midway-blitz-speech,"Underwood Condemns DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, Operation Midway Blitz, in Speech Delivered from House Floor",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Lauren Underwood,U000040,underwood.house.gov,underwood,https://underwood.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Yesterday, Rep. Lauren Underwood, Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Appropriations, delivered the following speech from the House floor:

“I rise today because what happened in Illinois during Operation Midway Blitz can never happen again.

The last time this chamber convened before House Republicans took an 8-week vacation was September 19th.

So, this is the first chance I’ve had to address the House about the outrageous abuses of power our community has endured for the past two months.

Under Kristi Noem’s so-called leadership, Department of Homeland Security agents have terrorized my district.

Their reckless and incompetent methods have traumatized families and endangered entire neighborhoods.

No community in America should live under siege by the federal government, as mine has.

Federal immigration officers and National Guard personnel, weaponized and politicized by the Trump Administration, swept into my district with no communication, no coordination, no transparency, no accountability, and no regard for public safety.

They came barging into our towns, ignored our laws, and trampled on our civil and human rights.

In Aurora, a federal agent pepper sprayed a constituent of mine directly in the face from inches away, while she was standing completely still with her hands at her sides, unarmed.

Elsewhere in my district, we heard reports that federal officers used an elementary school as a staging area, positioning armed tactical teams on school grounds in full view of children.

Parents are afraid to leave their homes after hearing about neighbors abducted by masked agents while walking their kids to school, leaving the children unattended by the side of the road.

Workers fear going to their jobs, our economy is suffering, and local businesses have seen foot traffic collapse.

Because, despite the Trump Administration’s claims of targeting “the worst of the worst,” their immigration enforcement operations have been a chaotic mess—sweeping up U.S. citizens, legal immigrants, and people with no criminal record.

I was horrified when federal agents rappelled down from helicopters to a Chicago apartment complex in the middle of the night, smashed windows and doors, threw flash-bang grenades, dragged children from their beds, and zip-tied and detained U.S. citizens for hours.

And yet, after all that, federal prosecutors have not filed criminal charges against anyone detained that night.

And in a recent court filing, DHS listed 614 people arrested as part of Operation Midway Blitz—and only 16 of them have criminal histories of any kind. That’s 2.6%.

The other 598 people have no criminal record!

What’s happening in Illinois is called racial profiling.

Greg Bovino, the Border Patrol agent who led Operation Midway Blitz, literally told a reporter that agents arrest people based on, quote, “how they look.”

Masked officers are violently targeting people, including U.S. citizens, because their brown skin and black hair make them seem suspicious.

This is a complete failure. Our Founding Fathers warned us about this type of government overreach after seeing how a desperate king’s troops could trample on our unalienable right to LIBERTY.

And yet, as we approach our 250th birthday, we are confronting a similar tyranny.

That’s not all—many of those arrested were essentially disappeared. Members of Congress could not get basic information from DHS about where they took our constituents.

During the Republican shutdown, DHS leadership chose to furlough the liaisons we rely on to locate detainees and resolve urgent casework.

When a constituent reached out because her husband was denied access to medical care in a detention facility, my office’s emails bounced back, and our calls went unanswered. Weeks later, I’m still waiting for a response.

But the shutdown didn’t stop DHS agents from harassing citizens and using force on peaceful protesters, because the Administration deemed these violent tactics “essential.”

That was not an accident. That was a policy choice.

This is not what legitimate law enforcement looks like.

Operation Midway Blitz disregarded Illinois state laws, federal laws, and the U.S. Constitution.

Due process—a foundational constitutional right for ALL people in this country—went out the window. Local police and officials were kept in the dark. People were snatched off the streets seemingly at random.

Many of my constituents felt like they were being hunted, because of the language they speak or the color of their skin. Simply because they needed to run an errand at the hardware store or walk their kids to school.

This is not about public safety. When the President has the power to terrorize American communities for his political purposes, it makes us all less safe, and less free.

The people of Illinois deserve answers—and Americans deserve better.”

Footage of Underwood’s speech can be viewed here.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases/casten-introduces-pair-of-bills-to-modernize-electric-grid-data,Casten Introduces Pair of Bills to Modernize Electric Grid Data,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Sean Casten,C001117,casten.house.gov,casten,https://casten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Sean Casten (IL-06) introduced two complementary bills designed to modernize, standardize, and share the data needed to build a cheaper, faster, more efficient, and more reliable electric grid.

The first bill, the Electricity Transmission Scorecard Act, introduced by Rep. Casten and Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15), gives Americans insights into their utility’s performance by creating the first-ever standardized, independently-verified, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)-administered performance scorecards for major transmission utilities and Regional Transmission Organizations and Independent System Operators—covering key outcomes for ratepayers, including affordability, reliability, efficiency, equity, emissions, and deployment of new clean, cheap energy.

By making results public, the legislation ensures accountability, empowers ratepayers and researchers with transparent data, and provides utilities and operators a consistent platform to demonstrate performance and share best practices.

Text of the Electricity Transmission Scorecard Act can be found here. A one-page summary of the legislation can be found here.

“The current lack of standardized data means we cannot properly assess how our nation’s transmission system performs or determine which utility investments are genuinely lowering costs for customers. Without that clarity, we can’t fix what we can’t see,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “By making this data standardized, public, and reliable, we ensure accountability, empower Americans to advocate for stronger and more efficient utility performance, and provide both utilities and operators with a consistent platform to demonstrate results and share best practices. This is essential to creating a more efficient, reliable electric grid and an important step towards driving down energy costs.”

“Our country urgently needs clearer and more consistent information about investments in the power grid so that we can make progress on keeping prices down while meeting America’s growing energy needs,” said Congressman Kevin Mullin. “I’m proud to co-lead the Electricity Transmission Scorecard Act as it would increase transparency by finally giving the public and regulators long-overdue data needed to better understand how well the transmission system is operating. Americans deserve to have confidence that their power is delivered efficiently and with accountability.""

The second bill, the Grid Research and Development Act, introduced by Rep. Casten, modernizes and standardizes the transmission and interconnection data reported to FERC by creating a unified, searchable, machine-readable centralized repository of project-level, system-level, and queue data. The legislation also establishes a National Lab-supported Interconnection Data Dashboard to provide comprehensive real-time visibility into costs, delays, project attrition, and regional trends, critical for efficient grid planning and cost-effective transmission development.

Text of the Grid Research and Development Act can be found here. A one-page summary of the legislation can be found here.

“Under the Trump Administration, Illinoisans have seen their electric bills skyrocket by 15%,” said Rep. Casten. “The best way to counteract this and drive down prices is to improve our electric grid so we can connect more cheap, clean energy. Our grid is the backbone of our economy and national security, but we cannot enhance it and ensure its continued strength if regulators, researchers, and experts don’t have the insights needed to do so.”

“The Grid Research and Development Act would help address data transparency issues that have blocked stakeholders from understanding the potential benefits of Grid Enhancing Technologies,” said Julia Selker, Executive Director, WATT Coalition. “Consolidation of utility data reporting will help grid users identify where Dynamic Line Ratings, Advanced Power Flow Control, or Topology Optimization might unlock grid capacity quickly and at low cost.”

“Building electric transmission lines is crucial to keeping electricity bills in check and making sure the lights stay on -- but not all transmission is created equal,” said Christy Walsh, Director of Federal Energy Markets at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). “The Electricity Transmission Scorecard Act would help consumers know if companies are maximizing benefits and minimizing costs of new transmission lines. And it provides utilities with the right incentives to make smart decisions for their customers and the country.”

""Too often, consumer advocates lack access to the information we need to hold utilities and RTOs accountable,” said Sarah Moskowitz, Executive Director of Citizens Utility Board. “The Electricity Transmission Scorecard Act and Grid Research and Development Act strengthen transparency and accessibility for advocates like us, so we can evaluate how our electricity providers are performing across a wide range of criteria, from affordability to reliability.”

“As electricity demand grows, we need a stronger and more efficient grid to meet our power needs,” said Jennifer Layke, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. “Right now, existing grid data is fragmented and inconsistent, which limits our ability to deploy the most efficient and cost-effective solutions to meet this demand. The Electricity Transmission Scorecard Act provides a vital transparency tool to ensure that we can direct critical investments in the transmission system to best serve ratepayers and the public interest.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases/foster-leads-effort-calling-action-potential-ai-bubble,Foster Leads Effort Calling for Action on Potential AI Bubble,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Bill Foster,F000454,foster.house.gov,foster,https://foster.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Today, Representative Bill Foster (D-IL) led 21 Members of the House Financial Services Committee in calling on the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) to convene a working group of financial, technology, and economic experts to assess the vulnerability of the U.S. financial system to a potential sharp drop in the value of AI-related assets and infrastructure.

The letter asks FSOC to include a discussion of AI investment risk in their 2025 Annual Report, and to brief Congress within 90 days on the working group’s findings and recommended actions or contingency plans.

In the letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the Members wrote:

“Over the past two years, private and corporate investment tied to artificial intelligence has expanded at a historic pace. These investments—ranging from semiconductor purchases and data-center construction to vendor financing, private funding, and bespoke financial arrangements—have concentrated capital in a small set of companies with complex contractual structures.

“Given the scale, complexity, and concentration of AI-related investment in recent years—and the potential for hidden risks that could affect the financial system in the event of a downturn for the sector—FSOC should act now to map exposures, close data gaps, and determine whether action is needed to make the U.S. economy more resilient in the event of an economic downturn.”

This letter was cosigned by Reps. Brad Sherman (D-CA), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Al Green (D-TX), Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), David Scott (D-GA), Jim Himes (D-CT), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Sean Casten (D-IL), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Nikema Williams (D-GA), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Cleo Fields (D-LA), and Janelle Bynum (D-OR). A copy of the full letter can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-krishnamoorthi-introduces-brand-usa-restoration-act-restore,Congressman Krishnamoorthi Introduces the Brand USA Restoration Act to Restore Funding for America’s International Tourism Marketing Program,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Raja Krishnamoorthi,K000391,krishnamoorthi.house.gov,krishnamoorthi,https://krishnamoorthi.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) introduced the Brand USA Restoration Act, legislation to restore $80 million in federal funding for Brand USA, the nation’s public-private tourism partnership. The bill replenishes the Travel Promotion Fund to offset drastic cuts made in the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which slashed Brand USA’s federal match by 80 percent. Brand USA plays a critical role in marketing the United States to international travelers, supporting millions of American jobs in the hospitality and tourism sectors. The organization is especially vital as the country prepares for global events like the America 250 celebrations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Restoring Brand USA’s funding is about protecting American jobs and strengthening our economy,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “When we attract visitors from around the world, we support American workers, small businesses, and communities in every state. This bill ensures that the United States continues to compete globally and remains a top destination for international travel.”

The legislation has been strongly endorsed by the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), which represents thousands of hotel owners across the United States.

“Restoring full funding to Brand USA was a top priority at our Fall National Advocacy Conference because this is about keeping international travelers coming to the United States and protecting our members’ businesses,” said Kamalesh (KP) Patel, AAHOA Chairman. “Brand USA has generated $140 billion in economic impact and supported over 300,000 American jobs, yet recent funding cuts threaten to slow this momentum. Ensuring full funding is critical to sustaining hotel occupancy, supporting communities, and keeping America competitive in the global travel market.”

Laura Lee Blake, AAHOA President and CEO, added: “Restoring Brand USA’s full funding is exactly what we were advocating for at our Fall National Advocacy Conference. Brand USA drives millions of international travelers to the U.S., generating tens of billions in visitor spending and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. For AAHOA Members, who own over 60 percent of U.S. hotels, this funding is a major step forward—every $1 dollar for Brand USA creates $20 in visitor spending. We thank Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi for championing this effort and helping America remain fiercely competitive in the global travel market.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases/miller-harris-lead-28-republicans-slamming-brakes-abortion-tourism-program,Miller & Harris Lead 28 Republicans in Slamming Brakes on “Abortion Tourism” Program for Illegals,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,IL,Mary E. Miller,M001211,marymiller.house.gov,marymiller,https://marymiller.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Thursday, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) and Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) led a group of 28 lawmakers in introducing legislation that would prohibit taxpayer-funded abortion travel for illegal aliens.

“Joe Biden turned federal agencies into abortion traffickers by directing the Office of Refugee Resettlement to arrange and finance abortion travel for illegal alien minors,” said Congresswoman Miller. “President Trump's administration is rightfully moving to reverse this shocking abuse of taxpayer dollars, and I'm proud to partner with Congressman Mark Harris on legislation that permanently ends it.”

“No American should ever have their tax dollars used to shuttle illegal aliens across state lines for abortions,” said Congressman Harris. “That’s why we're fighting to stop these outrageous Biden-era policies that turned federal programs into a taxpayer-funded Uber for abortions. We’re going to end it.”

The No Taxpayer-Funded Abortion Travel For Illegal Aliens Act aligns with anticipated movement from the Trump Administration to eliminate a Biden-era regulation and properly enforce the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits taxpayer-funded abortions.

Co-sponsors include: Reps. John Rose (TN-06), Barry Moore (AL-01), Eli Crane (AZ-02), August Pfluger (TX-11), Clay Higgins (LA-03), Chip Roy (TX-21), Marjorie Taylor Greene (GA-14), Randy Fine (FL-06), Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Randy Weber (TX-14), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Keith Self (TX-03), Eric Burlison (MO-07), Jefferson Shreve (IN-06), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), John McGuire (VA-05), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Andy Harris (MD-01), Daniel Webster (FL-11), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Byron Donalds (FL-19), Thomas Massie (KY-04), Jim Baird (IN-04), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Brian Babin (TX-36), Tim Moore (NC-14), Bob Onder (MO-03), and Sheri Biggs (SC-03).

Supporting organizations include: Family Research Council, March for Life Action, Students for Life Action, CatholicVote, and Center for Urban Renewal and Education

Read the full piece of legislation for the No Taxpayer-Funded Abortion Travel For Illegal Aliens Act here.",1,2026-05-15T06:17:41Z,2026-05-15T06:18:51Z
https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases/ramirez-blumenthal-lead-legislation-protect-va-workers-right-representation,"Ramirez, Blumenthal Lead Legislation to Protect VA Workers' Right to Representation",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,IL,Delia C. Ramirez,R000617,ramirez.house.gov,ramirez,https://ramirez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Continuing their efforts to protect the rights of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), House Veterans’ Affairs Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Ranking Member, and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member, introduced H. R. 6014, the Right to Representation for VA Workers Act.The legislation would restore VA employees’ right to have their choice of representation in inquiries with other Department staff that could lead to disciplinary action.

The Weingarten right has been a long-held principle previously protected through collective bargaining agreements. Since the Trump Administration’s cancellation of union contracts, this right has consistently been infringed upon at the VA for employees across the nation. Blumenthal and Ramirez have heard from various unions and VA employees that Trump VA officials no longer allow employees to have the right to choose their own representation in investigation meetings.

“VA employees are essential to ensuring the VA effectively serves veterans and meets its mission. Protecting VA employees and their rights ensures we retain the workforce that delivers on the promises we made to our veterans as a nation,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “As the Trump administration doubles down on their attacks on federal workers, we must reaffirm every worker's right to a voice in decisions that affect their work and to be protected from actions that would jeopardize their rights, safety, and dignity. I am proud to work with Senator Blumenthal on legislation that will defend workers' rights.”

“VA workers deserve to be represented by someone of their choice—a right that must be guaranteed by statute because the VA is routinely denying it in practice. It’s part of Secretary Collins’ assault on VA worker rights, including an illegal ban on collective bargaining. Ultimately, it harms care and benefits for veterans, and it must be stopped,” said Senator Blumenthal.

The Right to Representation for VA Workers Act is co-sponsored in the House by VA Ranking Member Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39) and Representative Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), Herbert Conaway (NJ-03), Julia Brownley (CA-26), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12).

The legislation is endorsed by the American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO (AFGE), National Association of Government Employees (NAGE), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), National Nurses Organizing Committee/National Nurses United (NNOC/NNU), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and Common Defense.

For the full text of the bill, CLICK HERE.

BACKGROUND:

The introduction of the Right to Representation for VA Workers Act follows Blumenthal and Ramirez’s introduction of bipartisan legislation to restore and protect VA employees’ collective bargaining rights in response to the Trump Administration’s cancellation of union contracts for 80% of VA employees. Their legislation, the VA Care and Benefits Accountability (VA CBA) Act, would restore union bargaining rights and protections for nearly 400,000 VA employees, among whom almost 25% are veterans.

In August, Trump VA Secretary Doug Collins terminated union contracts for most of VA’s bargaining-unit employees—enforcing the executive orders despite ongoing litigation and the Office of Personnel Management’s recommendation to wait until court proceedings had been fully resolved. This decision impacts nearly 80% of VA’s workforce, including mission-critical positions like mental health providers, nurses, and claims processors. This action stripped employees of certain essential rights that help protect whistleblowers who advocate for accountable leadership and increased support and resources to provide quality, effective, and efficient services to all Americans.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z